WT/TPR/M/397  
30 September 2020  
(20-6590) Page: 1/64 
Trade Policy Review Body  
6 and 8 July  2020   
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
JAPAN 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Harald Aspelund  (Iceland ) 
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  ................................ .........  4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5  REPLI ES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ............  54 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  63 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Japan  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 397/Add.1  and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY R EMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fourteenth  Trade Policy Review of Japan  was held on 6 and 8 July 2020. The Chairperson, 
H.E. Mr. Harald Aspelund  (Iceland ), welcomed the delegation of Japan , headed by Mr. Kenko S one, 
Deputy Director -General, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; 
H.E. Mr. Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO ; the rest of the 
delegation  from Tokyo  and other colleagues from the Mission in Geneva; and the discussant, 
H.E. Mr. Dagfinn Sørli (Norway ). 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that , in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefit ed 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership, in 
particular of Japanese officials who could not make the journe y from Tokyo given the current 
circumstances.  He thank ed the Japanese delegation for their flexibility shown by holding the meeting 
in this format, in spite of the time difference with its capital and all the inconvenience in logistics 
terms.  
1.3.  The Chairpers on recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The report by Japan was contained in document WT/TPR/G/39 7 and that of the 
WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/39 7. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Costa  Rica; Israel; Hong Kong, China; India; Chile; United States; Brazil; European Union; China; 
Argentina; Norway; Mexico; United Kingdom; Ukraine; Colombia; Chinese Ta ipei; Switzerland; 
Republic of Korea; Canada; Philippines ; Indonesia ; and Russian Federation . The following 
delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Malaysia ; New Zealand ; Australia ; 
Singapore ; Thailand ; Guatemala ; Iceland ; and Turkey . 
1.5.  During the previous TPR meeting on 8 and 10 March 2017, Members had noted that Japan had 
continued to face serious economic and demographic challenges and , to address them , they had 
encouraged the continuation of the "three arrows" of Abenomics, in particul ar the structural reforms 
that would allow Japan to further liberalize trade and remove non -tariff barriers. Members had been  
pleased to note that reforms had been  under way in various sectors, including agriculture, and they 
had commended Japan's efforts to increase women's participation in the workforce. For the current 
Review, Members , through their advance questions , sought information regarding measures for 
raising productivity (including of SMEs) and coping with low inbound F DI stocks, as well as on 
trade -related structural reforms in the areas of taxation and the labour market.  
1.6.  Members also recall ed that, at the time of the previous Review, they  had appreciated Japan's 
development assistance and preferential schemes. Members had encouraged a more predictable 
investment regime, better corporate governance, and business -friendly regulations. During the 
review period, key initiatives to improve the business environment included labour force reforms, 
corporate governance improveme nts and corporate tax reductions. As indicated by the advance 
written questions, several Members wished to have  more details on: trade -related strategies being 
implemented; the scope and impact of recently signed RTAs , as well as future plans in this area;  
GSP-related developments; investment facilitation initiatives; and the implications of amendments 
to the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.  
1.7.  With regard to trade policy, at the time of the previous Review, Members had expressed 
satisfaction with Japan 's efforts to streamline customs procedures, and for its predictable tariff 
regime. However, they had expressed concern about the high tariffs for agricultural products and 
some industrial goods , and the high compliance costs of some SPS and TBT measures. They had 
also encouraged Japan to increase enforcement efforts to combat counterfeiting. Members had 
congratulated Japan on reforms to facilitate the participation of SMEs in government procurement, 
and had encouraged improvement in the bidding process and  administrative procedures. During the 
previous review period, although the general thrust of trade policy ha d remained relatively 
unchanged, there ha d been developments in areas including customs procedures, contingency 
measures, standards and technical r egulations, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, government 
procurement, competition policy, and intellectual property rights. For this Review, in their advance 
written questions, some Members expressed interest in learning more about developments in certa in 
areas, including: customs procedures; plans to simplify the tariff regime; duty reductions and 
exemptions; and anti -dumping and countervailing measures. They were also interested in SPS -WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  related risk assessment processes and import restrictions; technica l regulations, conformity 
assessment and inspection; the use of international standards; the scope, impact and beneficiaries 
of incentive schemes; government procurement; competition policy and price controls on 
pharmaceuticals; and diverse aspects of the intellectual property rights regime.  
1.8.  In terms of sectoral trade policies, Members were interested in having more clarity on: 
agricultural reforms and policies; domestic support programmes as well as TRQ administration 
methods and fill rates; fisheries subs idies and capture regime; incentives and tariff protection in 
manufacturing; energy policy measures; and certain issues on financial, telecoms, transport, 
environmental, and distribution services.  
1.9.  This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss  in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. It was also an opportune 
moment for Japan to update the Membership on the impact of COVID -19 on its economy and 
measures it ha d taken in response. The Chairperson  looked forward to a fruitful exchange.  
  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  (MR. KENKO S ONE) 
Introduction  
Opening remarks  
2.1.  Let me begin by expressing our sympathy to those affected by COVID -19 and expressing my 
gratitude to the delegations attending this meeting under the current circumstances. At the same 
time, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Chairperso n, H.E. Harald Aspelund, as 
well as our discussant for this meeting, H.E. Dagfinn Sørli, Permanent Representative for Norway at 
the WTO. We would also like to thank Mr. Willy Alfaro, Director of the TPR Division, and other 
members of the WTO Secretariat, e specially Mr. Sergios Stamnas, Mr. Pierre Latrille and Ms. Katie 
Waters, for their efforts to facilitate Japan's TPR, the very first review after the postponement of 
meetings due to COVID -19. For this review, we received 647 questions from 25 Members befor e the 
deadline, and we are pleased to have been able to answer all of them. We thank the Members who 
have submitted written questions in light of the purpose of this meeting, which is to improve 
transparency of the trade policies of each Member.  
The impor tance of the TPR  
2.2.  Amongst the three functions of the WTO, namely, rule -making, dispute settlement, and 
implementation and monitoring, there have not been substantial achievements in rule -making 
despite drastic changes in the world economy. With regard to di spute settlement, the Appellate Body 
fell into a position of being unable to hear any new appeals. In order to increase the momentum for 
the restoration of confidence in the WTO, Members should strive for rule -making in new areas and 
reform of the dispute settlement system. At the same time, it is vital for Members to fully commit 
themselves to the TPRM, which is the core of the implementation and monitoring function. At the 
previous review in 2017, a number of Members suggested that Japan could take measur es to further 
expand foreign direct investment to Japan. Since then, Japan has been taking measures to foster 
the best business environment in the world. These measures include regional business conferences 
to attract FDI, a review of existing regulatory f rameworks, and digitalization of administrative 
procedures. Japan, as this example shows, has been proactively utilizing the TPRM to improve its 
policies and systems.  
Japan's commitment to the multilateral trading system  
2.3.  Japan, as a  strong  trading nation, has been achieving its economic growth and prosperity 
through stable and transparent transactions, upholding free and fair international rules and 
encouraging others to do the same. Like many other Members, the Japanese economy has been 
severely hit by COV ID-19 since March, when Japan's Review was initially planned to take place. For 
example, the year -on-year real GDP growth for the first quarter of this year was -2.2%.  
2.4.  This review is based on Japan's report and the report by the WTO Secretariat, which com piled 
information on trade policy developments up to the end of 2019. As such, the recent developments 
brought about by the COVID -19 crisis are not within the scope of the se reports . Nonetheless, Japan's 
commitment to the WTO and the multilateral trading s ystem remains unchanged even at the time 
of this crisis. Words about free trade are not equal to deeds committing to it. Although the 
importance of free trade has been frequently mentioned at multilateral fora, we are concerned about 
widespread protectioni st moves such as export restrictions on medical goods including face masks 
and PPE as well as agricultural products. Under these circumstances, Japan has not taken any export 
and import prohibitions or other restrictive measures in the wake of COVID -19, and this shows 
Japan's unwavering commitment to free trade.  
Promotion of Free Trade  
The Importance of WTO reform in order to maintain and strengthen the MTS  
2.5.  Since the previous review in 2017, Japan has been actively contributing to the promotion of 
free trade. First of all, we would like to introduce Japan's efforts and achievements as the chair of 
the G20 last year.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  2.6.  The G20 Osaka Summit was held amid intensifying conflicts over international trade and 
challenges against the very existence of multila teralism. Under these circumstances, the Japanese 
presidency persistently identified areas of common ground amongst the G20 Members. We believe 
that Japan was able to demonstrate the strong will of the G20 to the world.  
2.7.  In Osaka, the G20 Members reaffirmed  the principles of the free trading system, including "free 
and fair", "transparent and indiscriminate" and "open market". The G20 also agreed to promote 
reform of the WTO and improve its functions so that it remains relevant in the future.  
2.8.  The Digital eco nomy is another area where a significant outcome was produced. "Data Free 
Flow with Trust (DFFT)", first espoused by Prime Minister Abe at the Davos Conference last year, 
was shared as a basic concept for data utilization. On the occasion of the G20 Osaka Summit, the 
launch of the "Osaka Track" was declared, and it triggered full -scale rule -making on the digital 
economy. We welcome the acceleration of electronic commerce negotiations in the WTO under the 
"Osaka Track". In addition, the Japan -US Digital Trad e Agreement concluded last year provides a 
model for high -level rules in this area. With the advent of the COVID -19 crisis, the importance of 
the digitalization of the economy has been widely recognized and the pace of digitalization has even 
increased. In  this current climate, Japan will lead the negotiations toward the establishment of rules 
on the international digital economy in order to expand the circle of cooperation among like -minded 
countries and gain concrete results.  
2.9.  We would also like to introdu ce Japan's efforts to improve transparency at the WTO. Though 
the notification obligation serves as a basis for the functioning of the WTO system, Japan finds it 
problematic that notification obligations based on WTO agreements are poorly fulfilled. In ord er to 
improve this situation, we submitted a transparency and notification proposal along with the US and 
the EU in 2018. We hope that Members will participate in constructive discussions to reinforce 
notification and improve transparency.  
Regional Trade A greements (TPP11 ，Japan -EU EPA ，Japan -US Trade Agreement ）  
2.10.   In order to expand a free and fair economic area, Japan has vigorously pursued economic 
partnership agreements such as TPP11 and the Japan -EU EPA. Japan will work toward the steady 
implementation and  expansion of TPP11, as well as the steady implementation of the Japan -EU EPA 
and the Japan -US Trade Agreement that entered into force in January this year. Japan will also 
quickly work to establish a new economic partnership with the United Kingdom follow ing its 
withdrawal from the EU. Japan will also aim to sign the RCEP Agreement by the end of this year and 
promote negotiations for other economic partnership agreements and investment -related 
agreements, in a WTO consistent manner. Through these efforts, Japan will actively promote the 
creation of free and fair economic rules.  
Development (AfT, TICAD, SDGs)  
2.11.   In the current situation where economic and trade forms are increasingly diversified, Japan 
reaffirms the importance of "Aid for Trade (AfT)" and commi ts to supporting the efforts by developing 
countries themselves. In order to promote international trade, Japan implemented measures such 
as building the capacity necessary for trade promotion and assisting with infrastructure to accelerate 
trade. Japan pr ovided a total of approximately US D 460,000, through the WTO and the International 
Trade Center (ITC) in 2019, and approximately US D 12.5 billion as AfT in total in 2018.  
2.12.    Japan is also leading development assistance in Africa through trade and investment 
promotion. For example, at the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development 
(TICAD 7) held in Yokohama in August last year, we provided opportunities for direct dialogues 
between the public and private sectors of Japan and Afric a, and discussed ways to promote trade 
and investment between Japan and Africa. Japan will continue to strongly support Africa's self -led 
development through public -private partnership.  
2.13.   Furthermore, Japan has given priority to the implementation of the WTO  Trade Facilitation 
Agreement in developing countries, and has been strongly supporting the international 
harmonization and simplification of customs procedures in coordination with relevant organizations 
such as the World Customs Organization (WCO). The t arget regions of assistance are diverse, 
including Asia and Africa.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  2.14.   Since 2018, through the ITC, Japan has been providing assistance for female entrepreneurs 
in developing countries, encouraging marginalized people to participate in international trade and  to 
benefit from it. This will contribute not only to trade but also to the Sustainable Development Goals 
(SDGs) 5 "Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls" and 8 "Promoting 
sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full an d productive employment and decent 
work for all".  
2.15.   With regard to Japan's imports from the Least Developed Countries (LDC), the percentage of 
LDC products subject to duty -free and quota -free measures has been expanded to about 98% of 
products, exceeding the  level agreed upon in the Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration.  
2.16.   Japan has contributed to increasing export income and promoting industrial structural reform 
and economic development in developing countries.  
2.17.   In addition, Japan has been supporting Sudan's acces sion to the WTO as the chair of the 
accession working group since 2016.  
Economic Policy  
The Achievements of Abenomics (improvements of macroeconomic indicators)  
2.18.   At the previous Japan's TPR, many Members expressed their expectations for the further 
advance ment of Abenomics. Although the Japanese economy is currently in extremely difficult 
circumstances due to COVID -19, the population employed increased by 4.4 million while the 
working -age population decreased by 5.5 million in the seven years up to 2019. In  addition, nearly 
90% of the SMEs achieved wage increases last year.  
Dynamic engagement of all citizens (inclusive growth: responding to low birthrate, 
promotion of female participation, regional revitalization)  
2.19.   In order to accelerate Abenomics, policies to enhance the potential of domestic economic 
growth are essential. Although Japan is now a low -birthrate and aging society, around 80% of our 
senior citizens at work hope to continue working after reaching the age of 65. We consider the arrival 
of the 100 -year life as a major opportunity, and we are taking measures to ensure employment 
opportunities for those with motivation to work until the age of 70.  
2.20.   Furthermore, there are many women with motivations and capabilities in Japan. If we can 
create opportuni ties for all women and if their potentials are fully met, the Japanese economy and 
society will experience a transformation. The number of women in employment rose by 1.3 million 
in the last two years. The realization of a society dynamically engaging all citizens is exactly the key 
to overcoming low birthrate and aging.  
2.21.   With regard to regional revitalization, tourism has brought a new lease of life. The number of 
foreign tourists to destinations outside Tokyo increased 180% in the  last four years, reaching  
18.4 million. Local economies have started to gain energy, as demonstrated by land prices of 
commercial districts, which shifted to an upward trend for the first time in 28 years. Although tourism 
is one of the industries most affected by COVID -19, the in dustry has begun its efforts for recovery, 
fully paying attention to health issues caused by COVID -19 but also looking ahead to post -COVID 
times.  
Society 5.0 (the fourth industrial revolution, promotion of innovation)  
2.22.   Japan has carried out various measures  toward the realization of Society 5.0, a new form of 
society achieving economic growth and solving social issues at the same time. Society 5.0 will be 
the fifth society in human history, succeeding the ‘hunting society', ‘agrarian society', ‘industrialize d 
society', and ‘information society'.  
2.23.   Specifically, this means extension of a healthy lifetime through remote medical services 
utilizing IOT and AI, promotion of ‘smart agriculture' with super energy -saving and high -quality 
production utilizing ICT and ro bot technology, promotion of unmanned stores using robotics, AI, and 
self-service checkouts. By bringing about Society 5.0, we aim to solve social issues and create new WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  values. Our world number one supercomputer Fugaku not only excels at computation speed but also 
at using AI. It is expected to be utilized in a wide range of areas and to contribute to the realization 
of Society 5.0.  
Economic measures to respond to COVID -19, tax increase and the latest (end of last year) 
slowdown  
2.24.   Lastly, we would like to give our response to concerns regarding our economic outlook 
expressed by some Members. In response to COVID -19, combining the economic emergency 
measures passed in April and our second supplementary budget passed last month, we have secured 
121 trillion y en (approximately USD 1.1 trillion) of fiscal spending, designed to fund the total size of 
measures worth 234  trillion yen (approximately USD  2.2 trillion). This is more than 40% of our GDP 
and the largest amount ever secured. The series of economic and fi scal measures to be put in place 
is expected to support our GDP by around 6.4%. We will continue implementing these measures as 
swiftly as possible.  
2.25.   Some Members have asked us about the impact of last year's consumption tax increase on 
the macro economy. A fter the tax increase, the Japanese economy slowed down from October to 
December 2019. However, attention also needs to be paid to factors that cannot be attributed to 
the tax increase. For example, not only individual consumption but also capital investme nts and 
exports were affected by a typhoon as supplies of parts necessary for production were delayed. 
Having said that, the reduction of individual consumption in the final quarter of 2019 was smaller 
compared to that of the time of the previous tax incre ase. The last -minute increase in demand and 
rapid demand drop right after the tax increase were also smaller than the previous time. In addition, 
the negative effect had been easing towards the beginning of 2020.  
Request for the Removal of Import Restricti ons 
2.26.   Next year will mark 10 years since the Great -East Japan Earthquake that struck on 
11 March  2011. Regarding the import restrictions on Japanese food products introduced by some 
Members after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant incident, at the current time, 34 Members 
have completely lifted the restrictions and 18 Members have relaxed them. We would like  to express 
our gratitude to tho se Members for their objective assessment based on scientific evidence. The 
safety of Japanese foodstuffs includ ing fishery products is surely secured due to the measures taken 
by the Japanese G overnment. At the turning point of the 10 -year anniversary of the earthquake, 
Japan strongly expects the 20 Members that have maintained import restrictions for more than nin e 
years to lift the measures as soon as possible.  
Closing Remarks  
The Importance of WTO reform  
2.27.   It is clear that the multilateral trading system is facing challenges at present. The WTO and 
its rules were developed by our predecessors after tremendous eff orts based on their bitter 
experiences with protectionism and unilateral measures. "Kaizen", a term originating in Japan, has 
been taken up by corporations across the globe as a term meaning "continuous improvement". It is 
our generation's responsibility t o ensure that all Members tackle the difficult task of WTO reform 
through persistent "kaizen".  
Japan's determination to lead WTO reform dialogue  
2.28.   Throughout history, mankind has suffered from large -scale pandemics such as plague and 
Spanish flu but has alw ays overcome them. The COVID -19 pandemic not only caused a steep drop 
in the volume of world trade but also forced the transformation of trade transactions including 
supply -chains. Although the 12th Ministerial Meeting (MC12) was postponed due to the COVID -19 
crisis, it is vital to achieve , with a sense of urgency, strengthened WTO reform compared to before 
the crisis, given the vulnerability and limitations of the existing free trading system that have been 
exposed under the current circumstances. In 2011,  Japan was struck by the Great East Japan 
Earthquake and suffered tremendous damage s. However, Japan did not simply revert to its original 
condition but also strived for recovery in the spirit of "build back better" and achieved it. This is WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  precisely why J apan is determined to play a central role and demonstrate our leadership to build 
back the WTO better in the recovery phase after the COVID -19 crisis.   WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
Introduction  
3.1.  I am delighted to act as discussant for this 14th Trade Policy Review of Japan. This Review 
comes at an extraordinary difficult and challenging moment for the global economy, for international 
cooperation in general and for the multilateral, rules -based trading system in particular. Let me in 
this contex t join the Chair in expressing gratitude to Japan for your flexibility and willingness to 
accept this unique format for the Trade Policy Review.   
3.2.  I would like to welcome the Japanese delegation, headed by Deputy Director -General Kenko 
Sone, who is joining  us by digital means, and my good colleague, Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki 
and his team here in Geneva.  
3.3.  Please note that I will limit my comments to the period covered by the review. In light of the 
special circumstances, my intervention will also be somew hat shorter than customary. Let me also 
be clear that my remarks are made strictly in a personal capacity.  
Macroeconomic trends  
3.4.  Let me start by highlighting a few points related to the macroeconomic context of Japan ’s trade 
policy. Before taking the cust omary glance at GDP growth rates, it should be duly noted that Japan 
maintains its position as one of the world’s largest and most competitive economies.  
3.5.  With this fundamental point in mind, 2018 turned out to be rather sluggish compared to 2017, 
as real GDP growth fell from a healthy 1. 9% to a very mod erate 0. 3%. Growth recover ed somewhat 
in 2019, reaching 1. 0%, which the IMF characterize as being “above potential”, in particular in light 
of a significantly weaker external environment. The negative effect s from weaker exports and 
export -driven investments were more than compensated by the positive impulses coming from 
public spending and private consumption.  
3.6.  Macroeconomic policies have for a number of years focused strongly on stimulating growth. 
The growt h stimulus of these policies has , however , been moderated by underlying structural 
challenges in Japan ’s economy and society, in particular related to a tight labour market and 
intensifying demographic challenges. Furthermore, increased public spending has  resulted in 
increased public debt, contributing to the list of risk factors, which in the near term also includes the 
potential fall in domestic consumption as a result of the increase i n the consumption tax rate.  
3.7.  Despite the apparent risk factors, the Go vernment of Japan should be commended for 
acknowledging the challenges and for addressing them with a comprehensive approach aiming at 
supporting growth by monetary and fiscal stimulus, and by raising employment and female labour 
participation.  
3.8.  In this context, it is worth noting that the IMF Directors, in their latest advise to the Japanese 
Government in January this year, underline  the need to “strengthen the mutually reinforcing policies 
of “Abenomics” and accelerate reforms to achieve sustain ed high growth, durable reflation, and 
public debt sustainability”. In other words: the IMF is recommending more of the same medicine, 
not changing to another medicine.   
Trends in foreign trade and investments  
3.9.  Turning to developments related to foreign t rade and investments, it should be noted that 
international trade, integration into the world economy and global value chains are of fundamental 
importance to the economic well -being of Japan. In fact, the ratio of trade in goods and services to 
GDP increa sed in 2018, according to the report from the Secretariat.  
3.10.   I have already mentioned the weak external environment as a factor in hampering economic 
growth. While exports increased by 4.1% in 2018, imports rose by 9. 7%, resulting in a deficit in the 
trade b alance.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  3.11.   The current account remained , however , on the positive side, as a result of Japan ’s large net 
foreign assets and high net returns. In this context it should be recalled that over the last four 
decades, and while the trade balance may have shifted occasionally, Japan has had a relatively 
stable surplus in its current account.  
3.12.   Stability seems to be a key phrase also when looking at the pattern of trade flows. China, the 
United States and the European Union remain Japan ’s main trading partners, although some 
relatively minor adjustments in trade shares can be observed.  
3.13.   Japan's outward FDI stocks are significant, corresponding to around 1/3 of GDP. Furthermore, 
the value of outward FDI stocks is about six times the value of inward FDI stocks. And while Japan ’s 
outward FDI decreased in 2018 and inward FDI saw an increase, the outward flow was still much 
greater – around 6 times greater – than the inward investment flows. While there may be several 
reasons for this striking “imbalance”, it may also be worth contemplating whether there may be 
opportunities for improving the facilitation  of foreign direct investments.  In this context, it is wo rth 
noting that the World Bank “Ease of Doing Business”  report for 2020 ranks Japan in  29th place. While 
this represents an improvement from previous years, the report identifies particular challenges 
related to starting a business, getting credit, protecting minority investors, trading across borders, 
paying taxes and enforcing contracts.  
Trade policy developments  
3.14.   Having benefitted greatly from international trade and the integration into the world economy, 
Japan is committed to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centred on the WTO. 
The objective of developing “fre e, fair and high -level trade rules” is reflected both in domestic 
strategies such as the “Abenomics” programme, as well as in bilateral relations, regional and global 
arenas.  
3.15.   At the G20 Osaka summit in 2019, Japan invited world leaders to confirm their su pport for 
open markets and a free, fair, predictable and stable environment for trade and investments. Japan 
plays an active and constructive role in the WTO, reflecting Japans standing as a leading economic 
power.  
3.16.   Japan continues to be active in explorin g innovative approaches to advancing the negotiating 
pillar in the WTO. Japan should be commended for being an active partner in efforts to negotiate a 
Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA) and an Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA), and, not the 
least, for c hairing the negotiations that resulted in the expansion of the Information Technology 
Agreement (ITA).  
3.17.   Since the last TPR, Japan has in particular demonstrated leadership in advancing the Joint 
Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce together with co -conveners Australia and Singapore. 
This initiative, with more than 80 Members participating, is a flagship initiative for updating the 
WTO rule-book to reflect the world economy of the 21st century.  
3.18.   It is my hope that Japan will find a way to demonstrate the same kind of leadership in the 
negotiations on fisheries subsidies, given the considerable level of subsidies provided to the fishing 
sector in Japan, and in line with Japan ’s position as one of the world’s largest producers and 
importers o f fish and fish products.   
3.19.   Japan has traditionally not been a frequent user of trade defense  measures. The Secretariat 
report refers to amendments to the legislation on anti -dumping and countervailing measures “aimed 
to ease the conditions for applicants requesting the imposition of these measures”. It will be 
interesting to observe whether these amendments will result in an increase in Japan ’s use of trade 
defense  measures.  
3.20.   The Secretariat report notes that the structure of the MFN applied tariffs remain complex, and 
that the simple average tariff rate for agricultural products is significantly higher than f or 
non-agricultural products. Furthermore, support to the agricultural sector remains relatively high. 
Coming from a country with somewhat similar chal lenges, I can sympathize with the rationale behind 
these policies. I acknowledge that other Members will have different views on Japan ’s policies in this 
area, and expect those Members to convey their views during the course of this review.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  3.21.   The most strik ing development in Japan ’s trade policy over the last decade or so has been the 
increased weight on pursuing preferential trade agreements. The Government report lists 
17 Economic Partnership Agreements having entered into force, and a number of other 
arrangements under negotiations. Since the last TPR, the  Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Tra ns-Pacific Partnership  (CPTPP ) entered into force in late 2018, and the agreement 
with the EU entered into force in early 2019 . From the perspective of this  House, I note that the 
Government report states clearly that regional and bilateral trade policies are means of 
complementing the multilateral trading system.  
Concluding remarks  
3.22.   Stability is a word that comes to mind when describing Japan, also as a gene ral 
characterization of Japan ’s approach to trade policy. Japan ’s openness to trade and integration into 
the world economy has laid the foundation for steady growth and economic and social development, 
resulting in one of the highest living standards in the world. There are many good reasons to 
congratulate Japan on its achievements. Nevertheless, in all countries there are room for 
improvements and adjustments. Constructive i nput and feed -back from fellow M embers of the WTO 
can hopefully con tribute positively in that regard. I wish Japan a successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
COSTA  RICA 
4.1.  With a tradition of bilateral relations established over 80 years ago, Costa Rica and Japan have 
fostered solid ties based on common values . Despite the fact that the territory of the State of Japan 
is seven times bigger than that of Costa Rica, and the population of Costa Rica 27 times smaller, 
both nations share a commitment to peace and democracy, the defence of human rights and 
environmen tal protection.  
4.2.  At the trade level, the Japanese market is a very attractive one for Costa Rican exports, given 
its sophistication and purchasing power. With regard to foreign direct investment, Japanese 
investment stands out for its innovative potential, with various firms from the technology and 
industrial sector present in our country.  
4.3.  Since 2000, Costa Rica has more than doubled its exports to Japan, particularly in the area of 
medical devices. However, traditional products such as Costa Rican coffee, b ananas and pineapples 
remain some of the favourites of the Japanese market.  
4.4.  Moreover, cooperation between Japan and Costa Rica covers matters relating to sustainable 
development, strengthening small and medium -sized enterprises and support for vulnerable s ectors.  
4.5.  Within the WTO, Japan and Costa Rica both support plurilateral negotiations and initiatives 
such as the ITA and the expansion thereof, as well as joint initiatives on e -commerce, domestic 
regulation, investment facilitation and MSMEs. We are also c o-sponsors of a proposal on 
transparency, among others.  
4.6.  The reports by both the Secretariat and the Member under review offer a broad and detailed 
view of the state of the Japanese economy.  
4.7.  Japan has managed to maintain a strong, stable and competitive eco nomy, with policies that 
have reduced both inflation and the unemployment rate. Such practices should be congratulated.  
4.8.  Both reports mostly reflect a highly positive situation for the world's third largest economy. 
Nonetheless, we continue to be concerned by the complexity of Japan's MFN tariff scheme as, since 
the last revision, the structure has remained unchanged for the 272 different types of tariffs, and 
tariff peaks are extremely high. This is a matter on which Costa Rica would appreciate greater 
pragmatism during the next Review.  
4.9.  Turning to this Trade Policy Review, Costa Rica submitted a series of questions to Japan on a 
range of topics including investment incentives, advance rulings, patent -related procedures, 
enforcement pertaining to piracy and the counterfeiting of goods, environmental services and 
e-commerce. We wish to thank Japan for the replies provided, which are being reviewed in my 
capital.  
4.10.   Lastly, I wish to highlight that, in the midst of the situation seen across the planet as a res ult 
of the pandemic and first global shutdown of economic and social activities, Japan has been able to 
reverse the initial outbreak of infections. It has done so by effectively controlling the spread of the 
disease and spearheading public policies that fa cilitate economic recovery, particularly that of SMEs. 
As in the rest of the world, this is an arduous task as part of which we must all fight with unity and 
solidarity.  
4.11.   Despite the distance and difference in size, the ties that unite us with Japan are gre ater than 
what divides us, as demonstrated by this Trade Policy Review.  
4.12.   I wish to thank the Secretariat for the efforts undertaken in conducting this exercise and 
reiterate my congratulations and best wishes to Japan in this Review.  
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  ISRAEL  
4.13.   Israel and Japan ha ve had close ties that extend beyond economic and trade relations dating 
back to 1952, with the establishment of diplomatic relations hips. Since then, relationships have only 
grown and expanded.  
4.14.   Our ties run deep and include, in addition to bilate ral trade, also cultural and intellectual 
exchanges, as well as cooperation in science and technology  — this last one being an area in which 
both of our countries excel at.  
4.15.   Before delving into the TPR, Israel would like to note Japan's successful policy in  response to 
COVID -19 pandemic, thanks to which it had among the lowest mortality rates worldwide and a very 
low number of new cases.  
4.16.   Japan is an important economically partner for Israel. Overall, according to Israel’s Central 
Bureau of Statistics, Japan is the 8th largest trading partner of Israel, in terms of annual turnover, 
and the fourth largest trading partner in Asia.  
4.17.   In 2019, Israeli imports from Japan amounted to USD 2.1 billion while exports to Japan 
amounted to almost USD 1 billion . Total trade between our countries, excluding diamonds, amounted 
to more than USD 3 billion. We believe that there is a room for further increase in the trade volume 
and I would like to note, in this respect, the successful economic cooperation that exists between 
our countries.  
4.18.   Since the last review, and early last year, our Governments signed a Memorandum of 
Cooperation (MOC) in the field of digital health. Under this MOC, collaboration between Japanese 
companies and Israeli startups will be enhanced, targeting  for implementation of a proof of concept 
at Israeli medical institutions .  
4.19.   In terms of the economy of Japan , since the last TPR, and before the current pandemic, there 
have been generally positive developments. Japan has maintained its position as the world’s t hird 
largest and sixth most competitive economy (2019).  
4.20.   Japan has been a keen advocate of international trade, and this is reflected in its degree of 
openness , as well as in its integration into the world economy and global value chains. Israel expects 
this commitment to international trade to continue.  
4.21.   At the WTO, Japan is a key driver of initiatives aiming to develop further the multilateral 
trading system . In this regard, Japan and Israel have had close dialogue and cooperation in areas 
such as the e-commerce joint -statement initiative, where we both share some common interests 
and where Japan has been taking a leading role. In transparenc y, Japan and Israel are both 
co-sponsors of a proposal aiming to improve across the board at the WTO.  
4.22.   In the Regional Trade Agreements front, and since the last TPR in 2017, two new regional 
trade agreements have entered into force, namely the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement 
for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the EU -Japan EPA. These are significant agreements that 
may have important economic consequences for many Members . In this regard, Israel will continue 
monitoring future developments.  
4.23.   During this exercise, Israel subm itted questions to Japan and received replies in due course, 
considering the delays caused due to COVID -19 pandemic. The areas of interest for Israel include 
trade agreements and Article 24, MRAs, standards and consumer product safety.  
4.24.   Finally, Israel loo ks forward to continuing  our close collaboration with the Japanese delegation 
to the WTO headed by Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki . 
4.25.   We would like to wish Japan a very successful TPR.  
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  HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.26.   Japan and  Hong Kong, China  (HKC) are close economic and t rade partners. Japan has been 
among our top five trading partners for decades, while Hong Kong was Japan’s 5th largest export 
market and the largest export market for agricultural and food products in 2018.  
4.27.   HKC and Japan signed a bilateral Investment Promo tion and Protection Agreement in 1997, 
and we issued a Joint Statement in 2018 to reiterate our commitments to forging broader and deeper 
cooperation on various fronts, including liberalization  and facilitation of trade and investment. Japan 
and HKC are a major source of inward , as well as a destination of outward direct investment of each 
other. There are more than 1 400 Japanese companies operating in HKC, among them, more than 
230 are regional headquarters, and 430 regional offices.  
4.28.   We are pleased to not e Japan’s commitment to strengthening and maintaining the multilateral 
trading system, particularly at a time when protectionism and trade -restrictive measures are rising 
around the world.   
4.29.   Now let me turn to a few specific areas in Japan’s trade policies . 
4.30.   We appreciate Japan’s contribution and leadership in the Joint Statement Initiative on 
e-Commerce. HKC looks forward to working with Japan on this initiative, which is crucial to the 
business world today.  
4.31.   We also commend Japan’s effort in enhancing and promoting trade facilitation in the 
multilateral context. Japan has expanded its offer of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) customs 
clearance facilitation for more Members and has provided AEOs with the flexibility to lodge their 
declarations at any customs office to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Japan has also enlarged 
the scope of online logistics services provided by its single electronic window.  
4.32.   On investment facilitation, we highly appreciate Japan’s act ive participation in the Joint 
Statement Initiative on Investment Facilitation for Development. HKC looks forward to working 
closely with Japan and other like -minded Members to further develop the multilateral framework on 
investment facilitation, with a v iew to working towards a concrete outcome at MC12.  
4.33.   On tariffs, we are pleased to note Japan has bound 98.1% of its total tariff lines and the high 
degree of predictability in Japan’s tariff regime. Nonetheless, noting that tariff peaks exceeding 15% 
apply to nearly 8% of Japan’s tariff lines, we encourage Japan to consider reducing such tariff peaks.  
4.34.   On agriculture, Japan’s last notification to the WTO on domestic support only covers the fiscal 
year 2016. We urge Japan to submit the outstanding notification s to the WTO timelier  to enhance 
transparency.  
4.35.   HKC would like to reiterate our commitment to fostering our economic and trade cooperation 
with Japan, and collaborating further in pursuing progressive liberalization of international trade at 
this challengin g time. We thank Japan for its replies to our written questions and wish Japan a 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.36.   We are pleased to note from the Secretariat’s report that during the period under review, the 
Japanese economy has witnessed the longest economic expansion of the post -war era. We commend 
the Japanese Government for its efforts to boost economic growth.  
4.37.   India and Japan share centuries old ties of friendship and civilizational linkages. In 2014, 
Prime Minister Abe and Prime Minister Modi el evated this relationship to a Global and Strategic 
partnership which has now become multifaceted, substantive and deep. Regular high-level 
exchanges take place between both countries. Japan remains a key partner in India’s economic 
development and its cont inued growth is beneficial to both India and the global economy.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.38.   Deepening trade and economic relations are a key pillar of our strategic partnership. The 
bilateral trade between India and Japan stood at about  USD 17 billion in 2018 -2019. Exports from 
Japan to India during this period were of the order of USD 12 billion and imports from India were 
about USD 5 billion.  
4.39.   Japan is our third largest investor and India has consistently remained amongst the most 
attractive destinations for Japanese companies. Si nce 2000, their investments in the form of FDI 
into India has grown steadily to more than USD 32 billion. There are nearly 1,500 Japanese 
companies with more than 5,000 business establishments, thriving in India and many of them have 
become household names . Japan is also an important partner for our flagship infrastructure projects 
including various industrial and freight corridors, high -speed rail and metro rail projects across the 
country. In recent years, the bilateral cooperation has e xpanded to new are as including energy, skill 
development, digital partnership, start -up and f inancial markets to name a few.  
4.40.   In terms of its trade policy, Japan is an open economy. However, the Secretariat report 
mentions that , since the last review, while the general thrus t of Japan’s trade policy remains 
unchanged, the regulatory regime of SPS and TBT measures have been further strengthened. As 
noted in the Report, the agriculture sector remains highly protected with some of the highest import 
tariffs with a maximum tariff  of almost 500% and Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs) across 101 tariff lines. 
The specific market support to agriculture is double the OECD average.  
4.41.   We thank the Japanese delegation for the replies provided to some of the questions we had 
raised. These will be r eviewed by my authorities. However, I wish to underline some specific trade 
concerns which undermine the tremendous potential of our bilateral economic relations. The 
regulatory regime including technical regulations, standards and SPS measures which in ma ny cases 
are more stringent than international standards continue to impact agricultural exports from India 
to Japan. The stringent maximum residual levels (MRLs) for agricultural chemicals, chemical 
products, additives for food products etc. are major ent ry barriers and add to the costs of our 
exporters. Further, our exports of shrimps, organic products, egg bi -products, mangoes, steel, 
textiles and carpets continue to face market entry barriers. Agricultural products such as 
pomegranates, potatoes, etc. a re also still awaiting market access. We would urge Japan to review 
the standards and measures to improve market access for Indian exporters by harmonizing the 
standards to the Codex level. Indian pharmaceutical companies continue to face difficulties in 
accessing the Japanese market due to the stringent and cumbersome regulatory framework and the 
requirement to form joint ventures with Japanese companies. The current pandemic demonstrates 
that easier access for Indian Pharma companies in Japan will be a wi n-win outcome for both 
countries. In the IT services market, the Keiretsu model of Japan makes it extremely difficult for 
Indian IT firms to approach customers directly, despite their competitive strength in the sector.  We 
request Japan to look into both these areas i.e. pharma and IT services and simplify the regulatory 
framework to make it consistent with international standard and norms. Despite being part of the 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the Mutual Recognition Agreements on 
Accountancy and Nursing services, the access for Indian companies in the insurance sector in Japan 
and procedural visa related issues for Indian professionals remain a matter of concern for us. We 
hope Japan will comprehensively look into all these matters expeditiously.  
4.42.   Before I conclude , I wish to highlight the vast potential for further strengthening the trade 
and investment ties between both countries, given the natural affinities we share. We look forward 
to working closely with the authorities of Japan in further expanding our economi c ties for mutual 
benefit and wish our Japanese friends a productive and successful T rade Policy Review . 
CHILE  
4.43.   The diplomatic relationship between Chile and Japan dates back to 1897 and is Chile's longest 
standing such relationship with an Asian country. F or over 120 years, both countries have been 
building solid ties in the political, multilateral, cooperation, economic and trade spheres. We are thus 
able to state with satisfaction that our bilateral ties have been consolidated at the highest level over 
time. 
4.44.   For Chile, Japan is a highly important player. Our bilateral relationship is conducted through 
regular political consultations, fluid trade, investment and cooperation in areas such as health, WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  defence, mining, astronomy, science and technology, and nat ural disaster prevention and 
management, which is very important to both countries.  
4.45.   Furthermore, Chile and Japan share the belief that economic openness and free trade are 
drivers of prosperity and sustainable development. Within the WTO, both countries ag ree on the 
great importance of maintaining an open, transparent and rules -based multilateral system. In 
addition, we actively support the ongoing negotiations, as well as the regular work of the different 
committees. We share the same views in many areas o f work, such as investment facilitation for 
development, e -commerce and services. Chile applauds Japan's leadership at the helm of the joint 
initiative on e -commerce, together with Australia and Singapore.  
4.46.   Chile and Japan also attach great importance to re gional integration, as reflected by the many 
trade agreements that we have signed.  
4.47.   Our bilateral trade relationship has primarily been driven by the Strategic Economic 
Partnership Agreement signed by both countries. This Agreement is the first of its kind to be signed 
between Japan and a South American country and entered into force on 3  September  2007.  
4.48.   Twelve years on from the entry into force of this Agreement, Japan is Chile's fourth largest 
trading partner, with trade between the countries worth 8.803  billion dollars in 2019.  
4.49.   Chile has emerged as a major supplier of safe and high -quality food to Japan. We are leaders 
in supplying this demanding market with products such as wine, salmon, trout, meat and various 
fruits. Moreover, we provide a significant a mount of, inter alia , copper, molybdenum, wood and 
lithium.  
4.50.   Japan is the leading Asian investor in Chile, not only in raw materials and mining, but also in 
areas such as renewable energy, water desalination, aquaculture and services. The stock of Japanese 
investment in Chile totalled 7.273  billion dollars in 2018.  
4.51.   Turning to the reports submitted, we note that Japan continues to be an economy that is 
outward -looking, open, competitive and geared to promoting investment. We also appreciate 
Tokyo's efforts to  revitalize its economy through structural reforms. We are pleased that the adoption 
of these policies has contributed to Japan experiencing its longest run of economic expansion of the 
past 75 years.  
4.52.   Notwithstanding the above, we must mention the agricult ural measures that Japan continues 
to apply, which result in a relatively high level of protection and support to producers for a significant 
number of products. We also note opportunities for improvement in the area of sanitary and 
phytosanitary measures and domestic support notifications.  
4.53.   We are convinced that a greater liberalization of agriculture would contribute to 
competitiveness and that Japanese consumers themselves would be the main beneficiaries of this.  
4.54.   With respect to fisheries subsidies, it is important to highlight the progress observed in Japan's 
notifications. Although we look favourably upon Japan's commitment to transparency in this area, 
we see an opportunity for improvement in terms of the amount of subsidies currently gr anted by 
Japan in the sector, particularly in the context of the negotiations that should produce an outcome 
in December.  
4.55.   By way of conclusion, we wish to reiterate our interest in continuing to work with Japan, which 
we see as a close partner within the v arious bodies of our Organization and also at the bilateral level. 
We wish every success to this important Member in its fourteenth WTO Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.56.   Japan is a vital strategic partner to the United States, and a key nation in world tr ade. We are 
also the world’s first and third largest economies, together accounting for about 30% of global gross 
domestic product.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.57.   Within the WTO and other multilateral fora, the United States highly values its close working 
relationship with the Governme nt of Japan, and its cooperation on many topics of mutual concern. 
Our work on the WTO e -commerce initiative has been very productive, and we look forward to 
continuing to work together in developing a consolidated negotiating text that sets high -standard 
global rules. Japan and the United States are also working together with the European Union across 
a number of areas, including to promote new, much -needed WTO rules on industrial subsidies that 
directly address non -market -oriented  practices by certain WTO  Members.  
4.58.   Bilaterally, the United States and Japan negotiated the initial stage of the U.S. -Japan Trade 
Agreement and U.S. -Japan Digital Trade Agreement during 2019. These two Agreements represent 
a major step towards achieving a more mutually beneficial and balanced U.S. -Japan trade and 
economic relationship and send a positive signal of what is to come.  
4.59.   The U.S. -Japan Digital Trade Agreement, for example, sets a new global gold standard on 
digital trade rules. It is the highest -standard digital agreemen t ever negotiated and cements the 
reputation of the U.S. and Japan as top destinations for digital investment. Both Agreements also 
created positive momentum towards further negotiations, as agreed by our Leaders last September, 
for a broader trade agreeme nt between our nations.  
4.60.   Although Japan’s industrial tariffs are generally low, significant non -tariff barriers remain. As 
a result, the United States continues to look to Japan to take new, bold steps to increase 
transparency, reduce unnecessary regulatio n, abide by international standards, and remove other 
non-tariff barriers to trade. Concretely, such concerns are manifest in the continuing lack of adequate 
access to Japan’s automotive market for U.S. exports due to an array of non -tariff barriers.  
4.61.   Anoth er priority for the United States is agriculture. In spite of the tariff reductions recently 
negotiated in the USJTA, certain market access barriers still remain. For example, and as the 
Secretariat Report observes, imports of certain key agricultural prod ucts are carried out by state 
trading enterprises, such as with Japan’s highly regulated and nontransparent importation and 
distribution system for rice and dairy products, which distorts both consumption and imports.  
4.62.   Prime Minister Abe has highlighted a number of areas for reform, including ones relating to 
digital privacy and medical care. The United States recognizes the importance of ensuring consumer 
protection, as well as the long -term sustainability of the govern ment’s social programs. At the same 
time, we urge caution by ensuring that any reforms do not have a disproportionate impact on any 
one country’s companies, or repeatedly disadvantage foreign firms in an attempt to shield domestic 
interests from the conseq uences of these polices.  
4.63.   Notwithstanding the particular concerns we have raised, the United States acknowledges and 
welcomes efforts and concrete measures by Japan to facilitate further market opening through 
domestic reforms and through further bilateral  negotiations. The United States looks forward to 
continued close partnership with the Government of Japan in working towards our shared goals.  
BRAZIL  
4.64.   First of all, I would like to express our solidarity with the Japanese victims of this unfortunate 
pandem ic. As we all know, the COVID -19 outbreak is taking a heavy toll on human life and impacting 
negatively the social and economic spheres of all countries.  
4.65.   Within the inte rnational effort to overcome this  crisis, Brazil commends the cooperation in the 
G20, i n which Brazil and Japan both participate, to combat the effects of the pandemic on global 
trade and to build resilience in global supply chains and strengthen international investment.  
4.66.   The actions endorsed by G20 G overnments shall alleviate the impact of COVID -19 in the short 
term, and also support the necessary reform of the WTO.  
4.67.   I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Japanese Government and the 
WTO Secretariat for their reports, as well as to the discussant, Ambassador Dagfinn Sorli , for his 
insightful observations.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.68.   Japan continues to play a central role in the world economy, and it continues to be a force for 
strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
4.69.   We note that macroeconomic policy in Japan has achieved some good results. Bet ween 2012 
and 2018, nominal GDP grew by more than 13 %. Between 2012 and 2019, the unemployment rate 
fell from 4.3 % to 2.4 %, and the number of employed persons reached a historical record.  
4.70.   Such results, however, have not come without costs. We note, for exa mple, the rise in public 
debt to a very high rate - around 237 % of GDP.  
4.71.   In the field of trade policy, Brazil commends Japan for the bold initiatives it has been taking 
in a context of rising uncertainty in the world economy. Japan has increased its network  of economic 
partnership and other trade agreements with several WTO Members. As a result of these initiatives, 
one could expect that foreign trade will gain still greater importance in Japan 's economy.  
4.72.   The bond of friendship with Japan is one of the most traditional and cherished aspects in 
Brazil's foreign relations. Brazilian development and indeed our bilateral relationship have historically 
benefited from cooperation and economic complementarity. In 2019, bilateral trade increased almost 
10 percent in relation to the previous year, totaling USD 9.5 billion. Japan is our sixth largest trading 
partner.  
4.73.   Moreover, the human bonds are a unique element of this relationship: the largest contingent 
of the Japanese diaspora - over 2 million nikkeis - resides in Brazil. The Brazilian community in 
Japan, in turn, numbers over 200,000 individuals.  
4.74.   This has been translating into frequent bilateral contacts at the highest governmental levels. 
As Brazil seeks to deepen its domestic economic reforms, we expect a renewed  cycle of investment 
and trade in our relationship with Japan in the coming years. In this context, Brazil has approached 
Japan with a view to enabling the early launch of preliminary studies for a possible trade agreement 
between Mercosur and Japan.  
4.75.   Turning to some specific issues concerning Japan 's trade policy, subsidies and protection 
provided to agriculture remain significantly high when compared to other OECD countries, in a 
manner that is particularly detrimental to the interests of exporters such as  Brazil.  
4.76.   Moreover, we continue to face SPS measures that result in high compliance costs for 
exporters, due to stringent restrictive requirements, often more rigorous than international 
standards. Sometimes, Brazil witnesses what seems to be unjustifiable delays, even after all 
technical requirements have been complied with.  
4.77.   By way of example, Brazilian exports of thermally processed beef to Japan continue to face 
restrictions, even though those products were freely admitted before 2012. With respect to imp orts 
of melon, in 2016, Brazil presented a workplan that would enable access of the Brazilian product to 
Japans market. Several technical inquiries from the Japanese Ministry of Health were responded in 
2017. To this day, Brazil has not received a reply fr om the Japanese authorities on the proposed 
plan. 
4.78.   Brazil and Japan also have significant complementarities in the energy sector. We understand 
that Japan could expand the share of renewable energies in its energy mix. Brazil is an exporter of 
biomass pellets made from sugarcane for use in thermoelectric plants. The importation of such 
products into Japan, however, has been frustrated by technical barriers.  
4.79.   Brazil thanks Japan for the written replies to our questions, which address issues such a s SPS, 
domestic support in agriculture, tariff -rate quota administration, renewable energy and 
telecommunications services. They were forwarded to our capital for examination and follow -up. 
4.80.   In conclusion , Brazil wishes Japan a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.81.   Japan and the EU are like -minded global partners and maintain a close dialogue and 
cooperation at multilateral and bilateral level. In the increasingly polarized  geopolitical context, 
Japan and the EU’s strategic partnership can contribute to preserving and defending effective 
multilateralism.  
4.82.   For EU and Japan , the multilateral, rule -based trading system has always been the most 
effective means to manage and expan d trade relations between countries. The EU is determined to 
achieve, through appropriate reforms and together with the whole WTO Membership, the restoration 
of properly functioning dispute settlement in the WTO. In the meantime, the EU and currently 
21 other WTO Members are in the Multi -party interim appeal arbitration arrangement (‘MPIA’). This 
purely stopgap arrangement is open to all WTO Members while the WTO Appellate Body remains 
unable to function fully. We warmly invite Japan to join. Not only would  this help preserve Japan’s 
dispute settlement rights in the WTO; it would also signal a shared commitment to the rules -based 
system and help to pave the way for the re -establishment of a fully functioning, two -tier, 
independent and binding dispute settlem ent mechanism in the WTO.  
4.83.   Moreover, our cooperation with Japan and other like -minded partners, with the shared 
objective of developing new rules to fill the gaps in the WTO’s rulebook, is also very important to 
ensure a global level playing field and tack le practices that lead to severe overcapacity, create unfair 
competitive conditions and undermine international trade.  
4.84.   As a highly developed economy and major global trader and investor, Japan is an important 
economic partner for the EU. Two landmark agree ments between the EU and Japan were signed in 
2018: the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).  
4.85.   The EU -Japan Economic Partnership Agreement is one of the most comprehensive trade 
agreements ever concluded with c onsiderable liberalization  efforts by both sides. At a moment of 
crisis in international trade the EU -Japan EPA strikes as a symbol of the importance of cooperation, 
common rules and predictability for the development of economic relations.  
4.86.   During the fir st year of the EPA implementation there have been some initial implementation 
difficulties, but the EU and Japan efficiently cooperated and eventually found positive solutions and 
the overall trade between two economies is so far on positive trend. Let us hope that the new 
economic partnership will facilitate a rapid resumption of that upward trend once the COVID -19 crisis 
is fully under control.  
4.87.   The EU welcomes the international cooperation through the "Data Free Flow with Trust " 
initiative, and entering in a mutual adequacy arrangement with the EU as regards data protection.  
4.88.   The EU is also cognizant  of Japan's contribution to the implementation of the Paris Agreement. 
At the same time, we closely watch the current efforts deployed to reconcile the domest ic challenges 
of de-carbonization  efforts with the overall level of ambition.  
4.89.   The EU in its questions has raised several issues, inter alia on SPS measures, government 
procurement, agriculture and services and we thank for the replies. On SPS, while we we lcome 
Japan's constructive approach regarding the establishment of a positive list for food contact 
materials, we would appreciate concrete progress on market access applications for agricultural 
commodities as well as work on regionalization.  
4.90.   Last but no t least , the EU expects that FTAs concluded by Japan with other WTO Members 
comply with its WTO commitments, in particular with the requirement to cover “substantially all 
trade”.  
4.91.   I wish Japan a very successful review.  
CHINA  
4.92.   Let me join others in congratul ating Japan for carrying on with its 14th TPR during the global 
pandemic.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.93.   Recalling the early days of the C OVID -19 outbreak in China, both the Japanese government 
and its people were among the first to raise money and send medical supplies to help us in the fight 
against the virus. What touches us deeply is their words of encouragement: in Chinese  山川异 , 风月
同天 , meaning "although hills and rills set us apart, the moon and wind share our kind heart", a quote 
from the poem written by Japanese Prince Nagaya in M andarin 1,300 years ago for China’s eminent 
monk Jian Zhen. Today, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Japan for its kind 
support.  
4.94.   China and Japan share not only the cultural connections, but also a common understanding 
on the multilat eral trading system. The interests of our two countries in trade are highly interlinked 
with a strong connection in the global supply chain. The close collaboration between the two has 
helped transform Asia to a global production hub, contributing signific antly to regional growth and 
the prosperity. China has been Japan's largest trading partner in the past 12 years and the bilateral 
trade each year is more than US$300 billion. Japan is also the one and only country with FDI in 
China of over US$100 billion.   
4.95.   There is no doubt that the growth of the two economies benefits a lot from the open and 
stable global supply chain. And the pandemic we face today does expose to some extent the 
vulnerability of the existing supply chain. We need improvement. However, ar bitrary modification of 
the supply chain by providing enormous amount of subsidies is not only costly, but also contradicting 
basic economic logics. Not to mention its volatility and fragmentation as well as growing 
anti-globalization sentiments, which wil l inevitably stall the global economy recovery. In this regard, 
we would like to encourage members including Japan to act cautiously.  
4.96.   China commends Japan’s efforts in safeguarding and strengthening the multilateral trading 
system, including its leadership  in E-commerce negotiations and active engagement in initiatives 
like Investment Facilitation for Development.   
4.97.   Having said that, I would also like to raise some concerns regarding Japan’s trade policies.  
4.98.   First, Japan’s restrictions on foreign investment  in ICT sector, including additional approval 
requirement on the ground of national security, and blunt discrimination against certain companies 
by excluding them from participating in Japan’s 5G spectrum allocation and government 
procurement.  
4.99.   Second, Japa n’s continued practice of export restrictions. The inclusion of Chinese companies 
and research institutions in its End User List subject to export control has damaged the trade ties 
between two countries and raise questions of Japan’s compliance with the W TO rules.  
4.100.   We would like to urge Japan to remove the above -mentioned restrictions.  
4.101.   Third, Japan’s high -level of protection in its agriculture sector. The average tariff rate for 
agricultural products remains high and the TRQ fill rates for certain products are still low. 
Considerable domestic supports could distort global food trade. We hope Japan could continue to 
pursue market -oriented reform on its agricultural policy.   
4.102.   No single economy can expect to be immune from the international public crisis in the time 
of globalization. Unilateralism and protectionism cannot save itself from th e crisis, but rather help 
fuel it. We look forward to continued cooperation with Japan to advance the necessary WTO reform 
towards the right direction, by jointly resisting unilateralism and protectionism. Otherwise, what we 
might lose could be more than a  cherry -blossom season.  I thank you, Mr. Chairman.  
ARGENTINA  
4.103.   Argentina wishes to highlight the prolonged economic growth experienced by Japan in recent 
years. This growth came hand in hand with monetary and fiscal measures, as well as with initiatives 
to increase employment and female labour force participation, which are two issues of great 
importance for my country. With regard to employment, it is commendable that the unemployment 
rate has fallen to around 2.4%, which is less than half of the Organizatio n for Economic Co -operation 
and Development (OECD) average.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.104.   Japan is a close and valued partner of the Argentine Republic, with which we share basic 
values such as peacekeeping and the peaceful settlement of disputes, the promotion and protection 
of human rights, multilateralism and a commitment to sustainable development.  
4.105.   The bilateral relations between our countries are long -standing. This year marks 122 years 
since the establishment of diplomatic relations and 134 since the arrival of the first Jap anese 
immigrant in our country. Moreover, we work intensively with Japan as members of the G20 Troika.  
4.106.   With regard to the bilateral economic and trade dimension, we have signed the "Convention 
for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on  Income and the Prevention of Tax 
Evasion and Avoidance" and its 2019 Protocol, which followed the signing of the Bilateral Treaty for 
the Promotion and Protection of Investment in 2018. This Treaty has already been ratified by Japan 
and is undergoing legi slative approval in Argentina.  
4.107.   In the area of agriculture, the second meeting of the Joint Committee for cooperation in the 
agriculture, livestock, fishery, forestry and agro -industry sectors was held in 2019. The Committee 
was established in 2017 . 
4.108.   Turning  to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, we applaud the fact that these measures 
are generally based on relevant international standards or scientific risk assessments. However, we 
have noted that Japan has set some standards on food additives and maximum residue levels (MRLs) 
that are different from Codex Standards and MRLs.  
4.109.   The Republic of Argentina is firmly committed to moving forward in the negotiations on 
fisheries subsidies that are taking place in this Organization. For this reason, we welcome Japan 's 
accession to the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, 
Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUU). Acceding to this Agreement involves the implementation 
of measures such as restricting port calls for fishing vessels li sted on regional fisheries management 
organizations' IUU vessel list and prohibiting the landing of fish harvested by IUU fishing.  
4.110.   In terms of technical cooperation, we highlight that the "Kaisen Tango" project for the 
development of the management skills of Argentine entrepreneurs is being fully implemented. The 
project is aimed at 1,000 entrepreneurs and 100 businesses in five years, with plans for its further 
extension under the triangular cooperation format. We have also launched the " Un Pueblo -Un 
Produ cto" (One People, One Product) project for the development of the regional economies in our 
country.  
4.111.   As part of this Trade Policy Review, Argentina submitted a series of questions to 
Japan.  We thank Japan in advance for the replies, which will be duly anal ysed by our authorities 
in Buenos Aires.  
4.112.   To conclude, we reiterate our appreciation of this opportunity to exchange views and opinions 
on Japan's trade policies and wish to once again underscore the importance of this transparency 
exercise in all of its as pects. We wish the Japanese authorities a successful conclusion to this Review.  
NORWAY  
4.113.   Norway would like to join others in welcoming the delegation from Japan to this review of 
Japan’s trade policy and for their flexibility to conduct  the review in the vir tual hybrid mode. We also 
thank the Secretariat and Japan for their reports.  
4.114.   Japan is a very close partner for Norway, both bilaterally and in the WTO. Norway commends 
Japan’s staunch defense of the multilateral trading system. We appreciate the role Japa n continues 
to play to move the multilateral trading system forward , as well as your unwavering commitment to 
battle protectionism and managed trade.  
4.115.   This is more important today than ever before. The COVID -19 pandemic has put our global 
trading system un der pressure and uncovered vulnerabilities. Addressing those vulnerabilities is no 
excuse for protectionism and trade wars. Instead, we must defend rules -based open trade and 
international cooperation.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.116.   Norway and Japan have a close and broad bilateral eco nomic and trade relationship. Our two 
countries have shared interest in several sectors including fisheries and oceans, energy and 
materials, and marine and maritime industries.  
4.117.   We would like to commend Japan, for its constructive and dedicated collaborat ion, together 
with 13 other Members, in the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy. We are both 
committed to bold transformations towards a sustainable ocean economy where environmental 
protection and conservation, and economic production and pro sperity go hand in hand.  
4.118.   We would like to thank Japan for its leading role as one of three co -conveners in the 
e-commerce negotiations under the Joint Statement Initiative. Norway fully supports these 
negotiations. The global opportunities and challenges brought by digital trade can only be 
meaningfully addressed through negotiations in WTO.  
4.119.   Japan is also an important participant in the ongoing fisheries subsidies negotiations in the 
WTO. To prohibit certain forms of subsidies that contribute to overcapac ity and overfishing is the 
most important part of the mandate. These negotiations must lead to real reductions in global 
fisheries subsidies. Norway expects major subsidizers and big fishing nations to make the biggest 
reductions in their fisheries subsidi es. We encourage Japan to indicate how it will contribute 
accordingly.  
4.120.   Norway firmly believes that trade and environmental policies can and must be mutually 
supportive. Our work in the WTO has always taken this as the basis. Norway is pleased to see the 
inclusion of a comprehensive chapter on Trade and Sustainable Development in the 
Japan -EU Agreement, and we encourage Japan to integrate strong provisions on trade and 
sustainable development in future trade agreements, as well as when updating existing ones.  
4.121.   Overall, we appreciate Japan’s increased focus on bilateral and regional trade and th e 
expressed view that regional agreements should act as building blocks and inspiration for further 
multilateral rule -making.  
4.122.   Norwegian seafood, in particular salmon, mackerel and trout, is an important part of 
Japanese food culture. The role of Japanese c ompanies in the marine value chain for Norwegian 
seafood is increasing. This underlines our common interest in an open and transparent market with 
predictable rules for trade in fish and seafood, including trade in whale products.  
4.123.   Norway has like Japan br oad maritime interests. Maritime transport is the backbone and 
major facilitator for world trade, as more than 80 % of world trade is transported by vessels. 
Unrestricted and competitive international maritime transport services contribute to economic 
growt h, investment, value creation and jobs. However, the open market situation for maritime 
transport is not reflected as commitments in most schedules of the members in WTO. We all know 
that commitments contribute to transparency, stability and predictability  to the benefit of maritime 
transport users, the suppliers and ultimately the economies as a whole.  
4.124.   We appreciate the efforts and results achieved by Japan, as a major trading and maritime 
nation, in including commitments on maritime transport in international and bilateral agreements. 
Eventually these efforts by Japan and other members could pave the way for enhanced commitments 
for maritime transport in the WTO.  
4.125.   In closing, I would like to say that Norway is looking forward to continuing the clos e 
cooperation on trade related issues, including on how to strengthen and modernize the WTO.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.126.   The Secretariat report noted Japan’s economic recovery during the review period, alongside 
the increase of private consumption and business investme nt. The COVID -19 pandemic has 
provoked a global economic crisis. While Japan is one of the least affected countries in terms of 
cases and loss of life, no economy has been spared from the effects of the global contraction. We 
note that Japan has taken rece nt steps to stimulate its economy and has implemented a number of 
measures to facilitate the movement of goods during the pandemic. We welcome this commitment 
to keeping global value chains open.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.127.   Japan is the UK’s 11th largest trading partner. Our total bi lateral trade in goods and services 
was £30.3bn in the four quarters to the end of Q1 2020.  
4.128.   We enjoy extensive trade and diplomatic collaboration, particularly within the WTO where 
we were both founding members. The UK was also pleased to join the plurila teral Joint Statement 
Initiative discussion on e -commerce, of which Japan is a co -convener and looks forward to engaging 
with fellow members in this forum.  
4.129.   The UK Government is committed to strengthening this partnership by delivering a mutually 
beneficia l, ambitious bilateral agreement. Both the UK and Japan have committed to an ambitious 
timeline to reach a deal for the end of the Transition Period.  
4.130.   The United Kingdom’s connection to Japan runs deeper than trade. The multiple programmes 
and organization s between our two islands, which facilitate the exchange of cultural, historical, and 
scientific information is testament to this.  
4.131.   The United Kingdom had greatly looked forward to welcoming His Majesty Emperor Naruhito 
and Her Majesty Empress Masako for t heir first state visit of the Reiwa era this past spring. While 
this visit has, unfortunately, had to be postponed because of the pandemic, when it is rescheduled, 
we are confident it will be a symbol of the strengthening bond between our two nations.  
4.132.   In closing, allow me to extend our warmest wishes for a successful Trade Policy Review.  
UKRAINE  
4.133.   We commend Japan for its positive economic performance represented by constant GDP 
growth (averaging 1.1% over 2016 -18), increasing private consumption and business investment, 
continued improvements in the employment and income situation, high corporate profits. Due to 
this TPR , we would like to know how the COVID -19 pandemic has affected the latest economic and 
trade indicators and policy of Japan. The Ukra inian delegation notes  the importance of international 
trade in Japan 's economy, its degree of openness, and level of integration into the world economy 
and global value chains. In this regard, we believe that Japan will keep its market open and 
predictabl e, despite the pandemic.  
4.134.   The Government of Ukraine also acknowledges efforts of the Government of Japan in 
implementation of trade -related structural reforms resulted in a maintaining position of Japan as the 
world 's third largest and one of the most comp etitive economies.  
4.135.   We highly value  the active engagement of Japan in bringing progress in development and 
modernization of this system, as well as new ideas and approaches, offered to advance the trade 
negotiations under the WTO, including Japan 's contrib utions and leadership on trade -related aspects 
of e-commerce.  
4.136.   Ukraine highly appreciates the cooperation with Japan across the WTO bodies , and also its 
great support and systemic approach at the bilateral level of our economic and trade relations.  
4.137.   Japan is  a very important partner of Ukraine and one of the largest investors.  
4.138.   Trade indicators continue to show positive dynamic of our bilateral trade cooperation. The 
trade turnover between Ukraine and Japan reached a peak of US D 1.2 billion in 2019 and increas ed 
by 28.1% since 2017. Over the mentioned period, exports rose by 14.7% (amounted to 
USD 259.8  million ) and imports by 32.2% (amounted to USD 975.4 million ). Moreover, while the 
merchandise trade deficit is increasing, the services trade deficit continued  to decrease, from 
USD 13.2 million in 2016 to US D -2.8 million in 2019.  
4.139.   In 2019, Japan’s investment to Ukraine amounted to US D 144.9 million.  
4.140.   For both trade and investment flows, Ukraine believes that the potential for further expansion 
remains substant ial.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.141.   Within this TPR, Ukraine has submitted a number of specific questions on a range of the 
following topics: implementation of reform on the tax treatment of virtual currencies; customs 
advance rulings; protection of customs information; Japan 's tariff policy; activity of the Nippon 
Export and Investment Insurance; a price survey scheme and the latest pricing reform in this field; 
regulations on banking and other financial services; domestic policy measures aimed at creating a 
society in which everyone p lays an active role and feels secure.  
4.142.   While expressing gratitude for the given responses, Ukraine is looking forward to developing 
further partnership and enhanced trade with Japan and wishes the delegation of Japan a successful 
TPR. 
MEXICO 
4.143.   Despite the adv ersities faced by international trade and the global economy in recent years, 
Japan has maintained a varied economy and its position as the world's fourth -largest exporter and 
importer of goods and services.  
4.144.   In addition, according to the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report 2018, 
Japan was the fifth most competitive nation in the world. This suggests that the economic policies 
implemented by Japan in recent years are heading in the right direction.  
4.145.   Furthermore, during the review period, Japan continued with its international trade 
liberalization process, not least the conclusion of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for 
Trans -Pacific Partnership, to which Mexico is also party. This trade agreement covers a market of 
almos t 500  million people and eliminates tariffs on approximately 95% of goods traded.  
4.146.   Japan is an active Member in WTO work, in addition to taking a leadership role in various 
negotiations. At the Tenth Ministerial Conference, Japan signed a number of joint statements, in 
particular that on electronic commerce, and here we would like to express our appreciation to Japan 
for its leadership. Japan, together with Australia and Singapore, drove forward these negotiations, 
which have already attracted 84 par ticipants to date.  
4.147.   With respect to the issues covered by the negotiations on fisheries subsidies, Japan has 
submitted various proposals that seek to address the main negotiating pillars. We note that it has 
adopted measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU). However, it has 
withdrawn from some commitments on regulating fishing for specific species. The IUU fishing issue 
is extremely urgent and important. We must coordinate efforts in the current negotiations to combat 
this practice.  
4.148.   In terms of WTO dispute settlement, Japan is one of the system's main users and has always 
been known for its active participation in systemic discussions. Notably, it was one of the 
Members  that submitted a proposal during the General Council process to r esolve the impasse 
affecting the Appellate Body. However, we note that Japan has not joined the joint proposal 
sponsored by 121 Members to launch the process to fill the vacancies in the Body. We therefore 
invite it to join, as this is a matter of systemic  and urgent importance for our Organization.  
4.149.   With regard to agriculture, the concerns expressed by Mexico and other Members in the 
previous Review about Japan's high levels of protectionism are still valid. Elements of Japan's tariff 
structure continue to be complex, and we note that the non -ad valorem  components were mainly 
responsible for the increase in the level of protection during the review period. Furthermore, the 
average tariff applied for agricultural products remains five times higher than for in dustrial products. 
Domestic support to the agricultural sector, despite some changes in its programmes, remains at 
high levels. Also, according to estimates, it is 2.5 times higher than the OECD average. This is 
despite the fact that the sector represents only 1.2% of GDP.  
4.150.   While we acknowledge Japan's efforts to improve transparency, we are concerned about its 
ongoing significant notification delays. In light of this, we urge Japan to improve its compliance with 
notification obligations regarding domestic s upport and to continue its efforts to liberalize this sector.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.151.   One of Japan's main challenges in the long-term concerns demographics. According to some 
estimates, Japan is one of the countries in the world with the highest median age of the population 
and o ne of the world's lowest birth rates.  
4.152.   We are confident that Japan will successfully meet the challenge before it and continue on 
its path of economic growth and market openness in the future.  
4.153.   To conclude, we thank Japan for the answers provided to the ques tions raised by my 
delegation and wish it every success in this Review.  
COLOMBIA  
4.154.   During the review period, Japan continued with its exemplary economic expansion, which 
has been the longest period of growth since the end of the Second World War. This countr y maintains 
its position as the world's third largest and fifth most competitive economy.  
4.155.   I would like to take the opportunity to mention Japan's prominent role in the WTO, as it is a 
country that consistently contributes to the multilateral system through  active participation in the 
various processes ongoing within the Organization. It played a key role in the negotiations for the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and is also one of the leaders of the current process to 
expand it (ITA II). It is suppo rting the development of the Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA), 
and was one of the first countries to ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement and the revised Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA).  
4.156.   In addition, I should like to highlight a couple of aspects of its participation in the WTO. The 
first is its high level of tariff binding in access to goods and services: tariffs are bound for 98.1% of 
the range of products, and in services it has commitments  in 10 of the 12 sectors in its GATS 
schedules. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the report continues to highlight the complexity 
of its tariff structure, which has 272 tariff rates.  
4.157.   The other aspect to highlight is the extensive implementation o f the General System of 
Preferences (GSP), whereby Japan maintains preferences for 128 developing economies and five 
territories (including all the LDCs) covering 98% of the tariff lines for products originating in those 
countries.  
4.158.   However, this deep commi tment to the international trading system is not applied equally in 
all sectors, and the agriculture sector is still the most sensitive. The report highlights that, in terms 
of domestic support, the most recent notification submitted by Japan dates back to  2016. We 
therefore wish to take advantage of this Trade Policy Review to appeal to Japan to update this 
information as much as possible.  
4.159.   I should emphasize that the level of protection afforded to agriculture remains the main 
objection concerning the leve l of openness of the Japanese economy. Domestic support as a 
percentage of GDP is more than double the OECD average, and less than a quarter of products are 
exempt from tariffs while for other products tariffs of 499.7% are applied. Japan could go still fu rther 
to create more openness and stimulate international trade, thereby benefiting many developing 
countries.  
4.160.   I should like to conclude this section by celebrating the important role that Japan plays in 
the various formal and informal processes under way within the Organization, particularly the Joint 
Statement Initiatives (JSI) on electronic commerce, domestic regulation and investment facilitation 
for development, as well as in negotiations on fisheries subsidies. We encourage Japan to continue 
to partic ipate constructively to achieve positive and timely outcomes.  
4.161.   Colombia submitted more than 20 questions to Japan as part of this Review. The information 
requested covers areas including customs reform, the investment regime, standards and other 
technical r equirements, innovation and dispute settlement. We also included some cross -cutting 
questions to give more depth to the report, especially in relation to electronic commerce and 
intellectual property. We thank Japan in advance for its replies to our concer ns. WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.162.   I should like to end my statement by reaffirming once again the importance of Japan's 
economy for world trade, and above all its crucial role in the Asia region. It is with this in mind that 
Colombia is continuing to make efforts to achieve a better tr ading relationship with Japan, and we 
hope that the conditions will soon be in place to conclude the ongoing negotiations towards a trade 
agreement between the two countries. We encourage Ambassador Yamazaki and his mission to 
continue playing an active ro le in the WTO in order to improve the functioning of the multilateral 
trading system.  
4.163.   We thank Japan for its cooperation at every level and wish it every success in its Trade Policy 
Review.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.164.   We are pleased to see that the Japanese Government has continued, since its last Review, 
to pursue policies specifically aimed at trade -related structural and regulatory reform, at maintaining 
a free -floating exchange -rate regime, and at improvi ng the business environment. This has surely 
contributed to Japan’s keeping its place as the 3rd largest economy in the world and being  rated the 
6th most competitive economy in the latest World Economic Forum Report.  
4.165.   For many of us, Japan sets a good exam ple by its continuing efforts to establish free and fair 
high-level trade rules internationally. We applaud Japan’s continued active participation in the WTO. 
In particular, we appreciate the contributions it makes to the WTO’s new initiatives, such as its  
co-convening of the e -commerce joint statement initiative. We stand ready to collaborate further 
with Japan on ways of developing free and fair digital trade.  
4.166.   We have been pleased to collaborate with Japan on fishery subsidies, working closely 
together on  identifying proper disciplines to prohibit subsidies that contribute to overfishing and 
overcapacity, as well as other forms of harmful subsidies in the context of fishery management.  
4.167.   We have also been pleased to collaborate with Japan on WTO reform and  support ing stronger 
rules against industrial  subsidy that causes market -distortion. We will continue to work  with Japan 
to improve the transparency and predictability of Members’ trade policies, as well as on various 
approaches to strengthening the deliber ative function of WTO bodies.  
4.168.   I would like to commend the great team of the Japanese Mission in Geneva, led by 
Ambassador Yamazaki Kazuyuki, on the significant work they deliver to the WTO here. We very 
much value the cooperation between us.  
4.169.   Bilaterally, w e have long enjoyed a deep and fruitful partnership with Japan in most areas 
of trade and the economy. For example, we are Japan's 4th largest trading partner overall, and its 
4th biggest export market. Japan is our 3rd largest trading partner overall, our  2nd largest import 
market and our 4th biggest export destination. It is today our biggest source of foreign investment, 
and historically our 4th biggest on a cumulative basis. Other important areas of cooperation range 
from industry to renewable energy, c ustoms, taxation, SMEs and IPRs, to food, the environment, 
culture, etc., all of which contribute to a solid foundation for our close and mutually beneficial 
relationship.  
4.170.   We would like to thank Japan for having provided detailed answers to the questions we had 
submitted in advance. In the future, we look forward to having useful discussions on subjects such 
as the Foreign Direct Investment  policies involving national security , the need for further clarification 
on SPS issues relating to agricult ural products, and the prospects for more participation by foreign 
businesses in energy and in certain services sectors in Japan.  
4.171.   With the current global outbreak of coronavirus and the difficulties with  the WTO Reform, 
we should continue working closely with responsible and committed Members such as Japan 
bilaterally, plurilaterally and multilaterally. In the lead up to the MC12.  
4.172.   Finally, we wish Japan a successful 14th 20th 16th Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  SWITZERLAND  
4.173.   We all appreciate Japan’s long-standing and constructive contribution to the multilateral 
trading system. Japan has remained a tenacious supporter of our intricate and carefully balanced 
rule book which has done so much to foster prosperity worldwide. We very much value the Japanes e 
delegation’s positive participation in the reform process, notably as a member of the Ottawa group. 
Likewise, Japan’s availability to further develop trade liberalization in new and creative ways is 
greatly appreciated. We would like to underline the key  role played by Japan as co -convener of the 
negotiations on e -commerce. We also very much value Japan’s contributions to the work of the G10.  
4.174.   Since the last review, Japan has continued to implement structural improvements, not least 
in the labour market to  boost productivity in a rapidly ageing society. In many ways, these reforms 
and some stimulus measures have paid off. At one point, economic growth was above potential. In 
line with this, there was a modest, albeit fickle, uptick in inflation.  
4.175.   Not surpri singly, the global outbreak of COVID -19 has thrown a spanner in the works, like 
in many countries. We all struggle to assess correctly the current state of health of our economies. 
It is however fair to say that the adverse influence of the virus on econom ic activity poses a particular 
challenge for Japan. Economic support measures undertaken by the Government are costly. Even 
before the crisis, Japan was grappling with the difficult issue of fiscal consolidation. Its national debt 
remains the highest in th e world and is now likely to rise even more.  
4.176.   Perhaps the crisis provides the Japanese economy with an opportunity to strengthen its level 
of digitization. More digitization would certainly help improve productivity.   
4.177.   Luckily, Japan’s external position pr ovides a comfortable cushion. Reliance on funding from 
abroad is limited. Its reliable current account surplus allows the steady export of capital.  
4.178.   Notwithstanding the country’s ever -increasing network of preferential trade agreements, the 
handling of for eign goods at the border could in some ways be made more efficient. As has been 
pointed out by the Secretariat’s report, the structure of Japan’s MFN applied tariff, for example, 
remains complex. Moreover, the World Bank’s 2019 Doing Business report ranks Japan in the 
56th place out of 190 economies for ease of trading across borders. Though not a particularly bad 
ranking, it could be better given Japan’s importance as a trading nation and high-income  country.  
4.179.   The bilateral trade relations between Switzerl and and Japan have continued to grow, not 
least on account of our preferential trade agreement of 2009. Switzerland is also an important 
foreign direct investor in Japan.  
4.180.   Food safety is a legitimate concern to us all. Nevertheless, we note that Japanese a uthorities 
do not always recognize international standards in the agrifood sector. And we sometimes encounter 
other problems related to technical barriers to trade, such as the recognition of certificates of 
conformity, equal treatment of certain electrica l appliances and the like.  
4.181.   We have submitted a string of questions in writing. They had to do with a diverse range of 
topics such as competition policy, the role of Japanese SMEs in the global economy and others. We 
thank Japan for the timely responses and  wish the delegation of Japan a successful continuation of 
this Trade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.182.   Let me begin by taking note of Japan’s efforts for the multilateral trading system. Japan has 
been complying with its notification duties in a diligent manner. As one of the co -conveners of the 
Joint Statement Initiative on E -commerce, Japan has shown leadership in our collective efforts to 
enhance the WTO’s relevance to the rapid changes in the trade environment. The current COVID -19 
crisis has once again highlighted the importance of the digital economy , and Korea has high hope 
for the successful outcome of ongoing e -commerce negotiations. Furthermore, Japan has been an 
active participant of fisheries subsidies negotiations and has made a joint proposal with Korea, EU 
and Chinese Taipei. We expect that all these efforts will contribute to strengthening the WTO and 
the multilateral trading system.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.183.   Secondly, Korea recognizes Japan’s active pursuit of multiple FTAs. Japan has 17 FTAs 
currently in f orce and has continued to demonstrate its will for further trade liberalization by 
participating in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations. As a 
participating member, Korea looks forward to working with Japan to conclude the ag reement.  
4.184.   As for bilateral relations, Korea and Japan have maintained a close trade relationship. As of 
2019, Korea was Japan’s third largest trading partner and vice versa, despite 10 % decrease of trade 
volume at USD 76 billion. When it comes to investment  in 2018, Japan was the 9th largest foreign 
investor in Korea, with Korea being the 10th largest foreign investor in Japan. In terms of volume, 
Korea’s share of Japan’s inbound investment was around 20% in the same year.  
4.185.   However, since July last year, Japa n removed Korea from its whitelist of nations entitled to 
general bulk licen ce and started to apply more stringent licensing requirements and procedures to 
the export of three items when destined to Korea, which were carried out without any prior notice. 
Japan has argued that its measures resulted from the suspension of policy dialogue between the two 
countries, and Korea’s allegedly weak catch -all control of conventional weapons and shortage of 
personnel and organization for export control. This unilateral  measure by Japan has brought 
uncertainties in bilateral trade and caused Korean companies to suffer significant damage.  
4.186.   Afterwards, on 22 November 2019, both the Korean and Japanese Governments agreed to 
resume Director -General -level policy dialogue in or der to contribute to resolving the export control 
issue. Korea temporarily suspended the WTO dispute settlement procedures on Japan’s measures 
related to the three items to Korea while the policy dialogue was underway.  
4.187.   Since then, the Korean Government has  engaged faithfully in the dialogue with Japan’s 
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry , and provided sufficient explanations as to how our export 
control is operated in an effective and regular manner.  
4.188.   At the same time, the Korean Government made its utm ost efforts to contribute to its prompt 
resolution by amending its Foreign Trade Act and reinforcing its export control organization and 
manpower. As a result, Korea believes that all the  reasons suggested by Japan for its measures are 
no longer valid.  
4.189.   Yet, Japan has not shown its willingness to resolve the issues and neither did the relevant 
discussions make progress. Therefore, the Korean Government has reached the conclusion that it is 
difficult to see this situation progressing through normal dialogue a nd thus resumed the WTO dispute 
settlement procedures in June this year.  
4.190.   The Korean Government is of the view that export -restrictive measures by Japan should be 
abolished. In this regard, we urge the Japanese Government to take its step forward in respons e to 
the efforts made by the Korean Government thus far.  
4.191.   Korea takes note of the efforts Japan has made since its previous TPR to make the trade 
environment more efficient. We are confident that Japan will demonstrate such efforts in its follow -up 
to this TPR as well.  
CANADA  
4.192.   The world is a very different place today than it was on March 18th, when this review was 
originally scheduled. We have been pleased to cooperate with Japan in the wake of the outbreak of 
COVID -19 to advocate against protectionism, to discourage impediment s to flows of medical 
supplies, agricultural products, and other essential goods and services; and to ensure an inclusive 
and sustainable economic recovery. History suggests that the appeal of protectionism rises at times 
crisis. It also teaches us that it s pursuit by policymakers compounds economic hardship and worsens 
international relations. As the world’s third largest economy and a key contributor to the international 
trading system, we encourage Japan to continue to support the vital work of this Orga nization, which 
is more important than ever.  
4.193.   As our fourth largest trading partner and our largest source of investment from Asia, Japan 
is an important trade and economic partner for Canada. Our bilateral commercial relations are 
extensive and multilayer ed. They are rooted in our shared commitments to effective, open, inclusive, WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  and rules -based trade. These commitments are strengthened by our respective Prime Ministers’ 
desire to develop a strategic bilateral partnership under a shared vision of a free an d open 
Indo-Pacific region. Our Government considers there to be enormous potential to enhance this 
strategic economic partnership and to work together to advance this vision.  
4.194.   Canada welcomes Japan’s commitment to the WTO and to rules -based free trade. In  this 
regard, we recognize Japan’s strong efforts to ensure its goods transparency commitments to 
WTO Members are fulfilled. By doing so, Japan is supporting the WTO’s monitoring function and the 
ability of other Members to understand the policy actions ta ken by Japan. We also acknowledge and 
appreciate Japan’s support for efforts to update the rules that underpin the multilateral trading 
system and address the challenges that are putting the system under stress. In this regard, we have 
been pleased to part ner with Japan in the Ottawa Group to advance WTO reform and to cooperate 
on other initiatives, such as the Joint Statement Initiatives and the Buenos Aires Declaration on 
trade and women’s economic empowerment, and the Statement on Highlighting the Import ance of 
MSMEs in the Time of COVID -19 on May 14. In particular, we greatly appreciate Japan’s strong 
leadership as one of the co -conveners of the WTO JSI on E -Commerce and its efforts to facilitate 
continued progress on this important initiative.  
4.195.   Canada al so welcomed Japan’s prioritization of the WTO and WTO Reform throughout its 
successful G20 Presidency in 2019. We look forward to continuing to work together on a range of 
WTO initiatives in the lead up to MC12 and agree with Japan that it is important for  the Membership 
to deliver results that demonstrate both our ability to make meaningful progress and the continued 
relevance of the WTO. We invite Japan to consider joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal -Arbitration 
Arrangement established on 30 April. The  MPIA seeks to safeguard our rights to binding, two -stage 
dispute settlement in disputes amongst participating members.  
4.196.   We further commend Japan for its leadership on the Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Canada , Japan and our CPTPP partners marked 
the Agreement’s first anniversary on December 30, 2019. Canada looks forward to continuing to 
work with Japan to promote and maximize the benefits of the Agreement, including through the 
accession of new members.  
4.197.   Through the CPTPP, we are pleased to work with Japan to address key challenges and 
barriers of doing business in the global marketplace that disproportionately affect SMEs, and to 
ensure that SMEs have access to the information they need to explore and navigat e CPTPP markets. 
The CPTPP’s ambitious and high -standard commitments will also be important to supporting trade 
and economic recovery in the context of COVID -19. 
4.198.   Turning to specific measures and areas of trade policy, in the last review, we expressed 
conce rns with Japanese policies in the areas of agriculture, forestry, and government procurement. 
Our concerns in these areas persist.   
4.199.   With respect to agriculture, we welcome the reforms that have been spurred by Japan’s 
participation in Regional Trade Agree ments, including the CPTPP. Canada encourages Japan to 
continue its efforts toward liberalizing trade and to improve market access for agricultural products. 
For instance, reducing the large amount of domestic support that is provided to agricultural 
produ cers would contribute to Japan’s objective of improving the competitiveness of this sector. We 
note that predictable trade and Canadian agriculture products support Japan’s food security.  
4.200.   As a major exporter of forest products, Canada takes note of Japan’ s program that 
exclusively supports the use of wood graded to Japan Agricultural Standards and promotes domestic 
wood in non -residential buildings and public construction projects. We have also noted Japan’s Forest 
Environment Tax scheme, as well as the re cently announced Emergency Measures to Use Excess 
Stockpiles of Wood. We continue to monitor these measures closely and look forward to seeing them 
implemented in such a way as to facilitate trade and conform to the WTO’s cornerstone principles of 
non-discrimination and fair competition.  
4.201.   On government procurement, we have noted that foreign participation in Japan remains very 
low, in part due to “non -regulatory barriers” according to the Secretariat’s report. We again urge 
Japan to revise its procedures and  practices, in line with its commitments as a GPA Party, to allow 
for more transparency and competition in its procurement tenders at all levels of government.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.202.   Canada is also closely following the measures that Japan has recently introduced to increase 
scrutiny of foreign direct investment and to incentivize firms to reshore production or shift it to 
South  East Asia. We will follow the implementation of these measures closely to ensure they do not 
unduly hamper trade and investment flows.  
4.203.   Beyond these are as, we look forward to the recently concluded trade agreements between 
Japan and the United States being submitted to the committee on Regional Trade Agreements so 
that the Membership is afforded an opportunity to consider the systemic implications of thes e 
Agreements, including their conformity with the relevant provisions of GATT Article XXIV.  
4.204.   To conclude, Canada and Japan both share a deep commitment to this Organization 
specifically, and to rules -based trade generally. We appreciate Japan’s contributio n to the 
international trading system and look forward to working with Japan to advance the interests we 
share in this system.  
PHILIPPINES  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.205.   Japan is a key trade and investment partner for ASEAN. Trade between ASEAN and Japan 
reached USD 2 29.2 billion in 2018, accounting for 8.2 % of ASEAN’s total merchandise trade, and 
placing Japan as ASEAN’s fourth largest trading partner. Japan was also ASEAN’s second largest 
external source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2018 with FDI flows from Japan to ASEAN 
amounting to USD 21.2 billion, accounting for 13.7 % of total FDI flows to ASEAN.  
4.206.   ASEAN and Japan established the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
(AJCEP) in 2008, and it has served as the foundation for the strengthening of our  trade and 
investment ties. ASEAN and Japan completed the negotiation on the AJCEP Trade in Services, 
Movement of Natural Persons (MNP), and Investment chapters in 2016. The First Protocol to Amend 
the AJCEP Agreement to incorporate the Chapters on Trade i n Services, Investment Chapter, and 
Movement of Natural Persons was signed in the first quarter of 2019. With Japan having notified 
ASEAN Member States on 15 June 2020 of the completion of its legal procedures, ASEAN is pleased 
to note that this First Prot ocol will enter into force on 1 August 2020.  
4.207.   ASEAN looks forward to continued cooperation with Japan to advance the implementation of 
the ASEAN -Japan 10 -year Strategic Economic Cooperation Roadmap in various areas, including trade 
facilitation, Intellectu al Property Rights (IPR), micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), 
infrastructure, energy and technology innovation.  
4.208.   ASEAN also appreciates Japan’s co -operation in realizing the goal of full conclusion and 
signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic  Partnership (RCEP) Agreement in 2020 to create 
a modern, comprehensive, high quality and mutually beneficial free trade agreement.  
4.209.   In the context of the COVID -19’s widespread impact, ASEAN highly appreciates Japan’s co -
operation towards mitigating the neg ative impacts of the pandemic as reflected in the “ASEAN – 
Japan Economic Ministers’ Joint Statement on Initiatives on Economic Resilience in Response to the 
COVID -19 Outbreak” and hopes that this Joint Statement will be translated into a concrete and 
mean ingful Action Plan soon.  
4.210.   ASEAN recognizes the important contributions by Japan in strengthening the World Trade 
Organization (WTO), including on the subject of WTO reform, and as co -convener of the 
Joint Statement Initiative on E -commerce. Together with Ja pan, ASEAN reaffirms our strong 
commitment to uphold an open, inclusive, transparent, non -discriminatory and rules -based 
multilateral trading system as embodied in the WTO.   
4.211.   Some ASEAN Member States have submitted written questions to Japan. We would like  to 
express our appreciation in advance to Japan and look forward to having its written responses.  
4.212.   Finally, we would like to conclude our remarks by expressing our appreciation for Japan’s 
continued support for ASEAN, and to the delegation of Japan for the ir hard work at the WTO. Our 
appreciation also goes to H.E. Ambassador Yamazaki Kazuyuki, the Permanent Representative of 
Japan to the WTO. We wish Japan every success for its 14th Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  PHILIPPINES  
4.213.   The Philippines and Japan have a longstanding bilateral relation. While our historical ties 
date back to the late 16th century, it was only in 1956 when official diplomatic relations between us 
were established. For 64 years, we have engaged in mutual cooperation that spans different area s, 
from economic interactions to people to people exchanges, continuously working on developing 
stronger links between the Philippines and Japan.  
4.214.   In 2006, the Philippines and Japan signed the Philippines -Japan Economic Partnership 
Agreement (PJEPA), which entered into force in December 2008. This has notably increased the 
trade between the Philippines and Japan and has continued to contribute to strengthening the 
economic relations between our two economies.  
4.215.   Japan is one of the most important economic partn ers of the Philippines. It is the 4th largest 
foreign investment partner of the Philippines and its 2nd largest trading partner with total bilateral 
trade valued at US D 21.25 Billion in 2019. It is the Philippines’ 2nd major export market and 
2nd biggest i mport supplier. It is also the Philippines largest aid provider for many years.  
4.216.   Japan remains as the third largest economy in the world given its highly developed, 
high-income and market -oriented economy. In its Government report, Japan highlighted its 
commitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO. While 
committed to the multilateral trading negotiations, Japan also pursued t he conclusion of several 
Economic Partnership Agreements and trade agreements. These agreements complement the 
multilateral trading system under the WTO and serve as building blocks to achieve higher trade 
liberalization at the multilateral level.  
4.217.   Strength ening and maintaining the multilateral trading system has been a main pillar of 
Japan’s trade policy. The Philippines recognizes the active participation of Japan in bringing progress 
in the multilateral trading system by exploring new ideas and approaches  including up -to-date issues 
to revitalize and reinforce the negotiation function of the WTO, such as on electronic commerce, 
investment facilitation, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In particular, we 
acknowledge the significant contribut ion of Japan in advancing the work in the Joint Statement 
Initiative on Electronic Commerce, and the ¨Osaka Track¨, which seeks to achieve a high standard 
agreement on trade -related aspects of e -commerce. The Philippines looks forward to continue 
working w ith Japan on these initiatives to promote the relevance and highlight the important role of 
the WTO in adapting to the changing business realities and economic conditions.  
4.218.   Furthermore, as one of ASEAN’s major dialogue partners, the Philippines appreciates our 
continued cooperation with Japan in expanding trade and investment engagements in the region 
through the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership Agreement, which we hope to conclude this year.  
4.219.   The Philippines submitted some advance written questions on the TPR reports, and we thank 
the delegation of Japan in advance for their replies.  
4.220.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with Japan in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
INDONESIA  
4.221.   Indonesia associates itself with ASEAN Statement that was delivered by the Philippines.  
4.222.   Since the last review, we have noted that Japan remains the third largest economy in the 
world with advanced technology, SMEs' contribution, financial -related policies, increased 
employment, and women's participation in the economy.  
4.223.   Japan is a key trading partner for Indonesia. Economic and trade cooperation between both 
countries, both bilaterally and regionally, have been framed within the Indonesia -Japan Economic 
Partnership Agreement (IJEPA) since 2008, the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
Agreement, and the current General Review IJEPA as well as the Regional Economic Partnership WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  Agreement (RCEP). These arrangements should have clearly indicated that the economic ties 
between both countries is indeed of paramount importance.  
4.224.   I wish to draw your attention to bilateral trade between Indonesia and Japan. For the period 
2015 to 2019, ou r bilateral trade trend was reported positive 2.86%. In term of total trade, it was 
accounted about USD 31.7 billion in 2019 with a decrease by 20.35% compared to the previous year 
of 2018 amounted USD 37.4 billion. Furthermore, we note that the trend of t rade balance from 
Indonesia’s side was recorded a significant decline of 42.8%. Against this backdrop, Indonesia 
believes that enhanced trade cooperation between two economies should bring positive impact to 
our bilateral trade and the mutual economic grow th of Indonesia and Japan.  
4.225.   We should also highlight that this effort has been underway, and we believe that the 
upcoming conclusion of Protocol Amendment on General Review IJEPA shall boost closer Indonesia -
Japan trade relations. We are convinced that the result from the review will further strengthen 
Indonesia -Japan trade cooperation and consecutively, will be positively contribute to the opening of 
market access for goods and services, flow of capitals, and movement of people.  
4.226.   Indonesia has submitted wri tten questions on several issues related to Japan’s trade policies 
and measures with an expectation to further comprehend those policies. Among others are raise to 
consumption tax rate up to 10% on 1 October 2019; penalties upon a failure in obtaining requ ired 
import/export licensing, as well as new principle on cargo reporting; several SPS –related measures, 
such as required scientific evidence for the imposition of MRLs distinct from those enacted in Codex; 
and subsidy policy upon clean energy vehicles pur chasing, particularly for industries that benefitted 
by the subsidy.  
4.227.   In this context, Indonesia hopes that those measures undertaken by Japan would not 
constitute unnecessary barriers to trade and in compliance with Japan’s obligation under the 
WTO agreem ents, as well as in line with our mutual commitment to enhance trade cooperation.  
4.228.   Finally, to conclude our remarks, Indonesia wishes the Japanese delegation a successful 
outcome of this Trade Policy Review and stay healthy during this challenging time.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.229.   We would like to congratulate Tokyo for carrying out an effective trade and investment policy 
that allowed Japan to maintain its position as the world's third largest and fifth most competitive 
economy. We hope that the country’s economy d emonstrates resilience to withstand the shocks 
related to the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.230.   Russia notes with appreciation the efforts of Japan on promoting cooperation within the 
multilateral trading system, especially on the WTO reform track and several plurilatera l initiatives, 
including on e -commerce. Our countries do not always take the same stance on specific negotiation 
issues, but we highly value Tokyo’s constructive approach aimed at refining the WTO and the global 
trade agenda.  
4.231.   Despite the uncertainties in i nternational climate, the Russian Federation and Japan have 
been developing constructive bilateral economic cooperation in many areas. Japan remains one of 
our largest trading partners. During the review period, our trade turnover showed an upward trend, 
amounting to over USD 20 billion in 2019.  
4.232.   Russia has submitted written questions on a number of issues, including on recent economic 
developments, measures directly affecting production and trade, agriculture and fisheries, 
competition policy and others. W e thank the Government of Japan for the comprehensive answers.  
4.233.   In conclusion, we would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Japan, the 
Secretariat and the Discussant, for impressive work done so far and wish Japan a successful 
Trade  Policy Re view.  
  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  NEW  ZEALAND  
4.234.   New Zealand is fortunate to have a strong, long -standing and broadly -based economic 
relationship with Japan. As New Zealand’s fourth largest trading partner, our fourth largest source 
of foreign investment and a key market for a number of New Zealand’s export goods, notably food 
and beverage products, Japan remains a significant and highly valued economic partner.  
4.235.   Japan and New Zealand share a deep commitment to peace, the rule of law, democracy, 
human rights, and the importance of the global rules -based system.  
4.236.   Since Japan’s last Trade Policy Review, New Zealand has welcomed the entry into force of 
Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) – New Zealand’s first free trade 
agreement with Japan. The successful imple mentation of CPTPP will bring both New Zealand and 
Japan deep economic benefits. We also congratulate Japan on continuing its ambitious series of 
economic reforms, which have enabled Japan to enjoy an unprecedented period of economic 
expansion.  
4.237.   New Zealand has raised questions concerning Japan’s agricultural policy and we encourage 
Japan to intensify its efforts on agricultural reform. Population decline in rural areas, the increasing 
average age of farmers, and continued high subsidization  of agricultural sectors all paint a worrying 
picture for the future of Japanese agriculture.   
4.238.   The challenge is to create an environment where the agricultural industry can apply the same 
ingenuity and efficiency that Japan’s industrial and manufacturing sector s have become so renowned 
for. Japan’s success in other industries demonstrates that exposing agriculture to market 
mechanisms and global competition can spur competitiveness and innovation. This would reduce the 
fiscal burden of agricultural support, rais e incomes in rural areas, and turn agriculture into a 
competitive growth sector than can contribute to the wider economy and compete on the global 
stage. We remain interested in the reforms Japan plans to undertake in order to reduce trade -
distorting forms  of agricultural support.  
4.239.   New Zealand has a long record of engagement with Japan in primary industries.  As Japan’s 
agriculture sector embarks on a period a change, New Zealand has sought to deepen its 
collaboration. Our Prime Ministers first committed to a Partnership in Food and Agriculture in 2014, 
making New Zealand a strong partner supporting Japan’s food system by sharing technical 
knowledge and export systems. This partnership has been consistently reaffirmed by subsequent 
Prime Ministers.  
4.240.   New Zealan d commends Japan for demonstrating commitment to the Buenos Aires 
Ministerial Statement on fisheries subsidies and for its constructive engagement in fisheries subsidies 
negotiations. We urge Japan to ensure its fisheries subsidies do not contribute to ill egal, unreported 
and unregulated fishing or overfishing and overcapacity and look forward to working with Japan on 
a comprehensive outcome.  
4.241.   New Zealand also commends Japan for its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, 
the largest global source of which is the burning of fossil fuels. We encourage Japan to rationalize  
any inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consum ption in line with UN Sustainable 
Development Goal 12.C.  
4.242.   Despite the many challenges that Japan has faced in recent times, we are encouraged by 
Japan’s perseverance and commitment to economic liberalization and revival. We further welcome 
the contribution Japan has made to the multilateral trading system to date and look forward to it 
continuing to play a leading role in global trade.  
MALAYSIA  
4.243.   Malaysia associates itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by the Philippines.  
4.244.   Malaysia would like to commend Ja pan for stepping up its efforts to contain the spread of 
the COVID -19 pandemic. We take note that Japan supported the concept of Access to COVID -19 
Tools Accelerator (ACT), together with Malaysia, for enhanced global collaboration and equitable WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  access to n ew COVID -19 diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. The COVID -19 situation in Japan 
has also been stabilizing, with the nationwide state of emergency lifted on 25 May 2020. The global 
community are going through this crisis together and striving to achieve  economic recovery while 
maintaining public health and safety.  
4.245.   We commend Japan Government’s efforts to continue pursuing its economic revival policy, 
or known as "Abenomics", which prioritizes policy coordination to meet the challenges facing the 
Japanese  economy. We note that the “Abenomics” has improved Japan’s current economy into a 
non-deflationary status and both nominal and real GDP have reached their highest level.  
4.246.   For the period January -November 2019, total trade between Malaysia and Japan decreas ed 
by 4.4% to USD  28.32 billion in the corresponding period of 2018. While there are significant 
decreased in the total exports from Malaysia to Japan by 6.7% to USD  14.48 billion and imports by 
1.9% to USD  13.85 billion respectively, Japan remains as Mala ysia’s 4th largest global trading 
partner, 5th largest export destination and 4th largest source of imports.  
4.247.   Japan also continues to be Malaysia’s top source of foreign direct investments (FDIs) since 
1980. As of 2018, Japan remained as Malaysia’s 2nd largest overall source of FDI with an FDI stock 
worth USD  18.24 billion. In June 2019, a total of 2,676 manufacturing projects with participation 
from Japan were implemented with total investment of USD  26.6 billion.  
4.248.   Japan’s commitments in pursuing the conclusion of Economic Partnership Agreements 
(EPAs), both bilateral and regional, and plurilateral trade agreements are also commendable. 
Malaysia and Japan enjoy strong and highly complementary economic relationship th rough various 
bilateral and regional initiatives such as the Malaysia -Japan Economic Partnership Agreement 
(MJEPA), the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (AJCEP) and the 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).   
4.249.   At the mu ltilateral front, we appreciate Japan’s active participation and contribution in 
supporting the development of new issues. Japan is a co -convener of the Joint Statement Initiative 
on Electronic Commerce together with Australia and Singapore and also had co -sponsored the three 
Joint Statement Initiatives namely, the Joint Statement on Investment Facilitation for Development, 
the Joint Statement on MSMEs and the Joint Statement on Services Domestic Regulation issued at 
Eleventh WTO Ministerial Conference (MC1 1). Japan also supported the Buenos Aires Joint 
Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment. Malaysia also notes that Japan has 
actively supported Least Developed Countries (LDC) accessions through technical assistance to 
accession applicants to build their trade capacity.  
4.250.   To conclude, we thank Japan’s response to our questions , and we shall study the responses 
with great interest. We wish the Japanese delegation a productive and successful TPR.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.251.   At the outset, I would like to express sy mpathies to all those impacted by COVID -19 and, 
on the occasion of Japan’s 14th Trade Policy Review, would especially like to signal our support to 
our Japanese friends. Japan has been at the forefront of efforts to coordinate a global response to 
the pand emic, including through joint statements to protect global trade here at the WTO, in the 
G20, APEC and other fora.  
4.252.   Australia and Japan have a strong and enduring trade and investment relationship, 
underpinned by complementary strengths and people -to-people  links. Japan is Australia’s second 
largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade standing at over USD 64 billion. And Australia is 
Japan’s largest supplier of primary energy , and key minerals, while Japan's goods’ exports to 
Australia are dominated by motor vehicles.  
4.253.   Tourism, transport and education dominate two -way trade in services. As a major source of 
investment, Japan has contributed strongly to Australia’s economic growth. In 2019, Japan was 
Australia’s third largest source of FDI and fourth la rgest overall source of investment, with stocks of 
around USD 168 billion.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.254.   The Japan -Australia EPA, which entered into force in 2015, further enhanced our bilateral 
trade relationship. We look forward to the market access review for agricultural products, mandated 
under that Agreement for this year, and the general review, mandated for 2021. These provide an 
important opportunity to upgrade this Agreement, including through greater globalization of 
services.  
4.255.   In 2018, we welcomed the conclusion of the CPTPP,  which further deepened trade 
liberalization in Japan and across the Asia Pacific region. We particularly appreciated Japan’s 
leadership of those negotiations.  
4.256.   Australia commends Japan’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its economy, as well as 
Prime  Minister Abe’s “Abenomics” Agenda. We encourage Japan to continue implementing structural 
reforms, including in agriculture to address high tariffs and complex administrative arrangements.  
4.257.   We note that Japan maintains high levels of trade -distorting agricultural s ubsidies, and we 
are pleased to see these appear to be trending down. We encourage Japan to continue this reform 
and to engage constructively in WTO negotiations to reduce trade -distorting domestic support.  
4.258.   Australia and Japan collaborate closely to bolste r the multilateral trading system. It is a 
privilege to work with Japan as a co -convener of the electronic commerce joint statement initiative, 
and we look forward to making substantive progress on e -commerce negotiations in the lead -up to 
MC12.  
4.259.   We are als o grateful for Japan’s support for the conclusion of negotiations on services 
domestic regulation and commend their leadership role, alongside the US and the EU, to strengthen 
WTO transparency and discipline industrial subsidies.  
4.260.   We note Japan’s positive record on notifications. We encourage Japan to improve its efforts 
to provide more recent notifications on agricultural domestic support.  
4.261.   Australia believes it is crucial that we conclude the fishery subsidies negotiations as soon as 
possible. We hope Japan will also support a meaningful outcome to these important negotiations.  
4.262.   We were disappointed that Japan significantly increased its subsidy programmes in recent 
years and we call on Japan to contribute constructively to find solutions to meet ou r Ministers' goals.  
4.263.   Finally, I would like to pay tribute to the very effective Japanese Mission to the WTO here in 
Geneva, led by Ambassador Yamazaki. We appreciate their leadership on WTO reform and their 
unfailing support to the multilateral trading sys tem. 
4.264.   Australia posed Japan a large number of written questions, reflecting the breadth of our 
relationship. We thank Japan for its answers that we will review carefully.  
4.265.   Finally, I wish Japan a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
SINGAPORE  
4.266.   At the outset, Singapore applauds Japan for its efforts in supporting this first “hybrid” TPR 
of the WTO. The monitoring function is a critical pillar of the WTO, and the conduct of this TPR is a 
significant step in the gradual resumption of the Organization’s regular activities. Allow me to make 
three points.  
4.267.   First, Japan and Singapore share warm and strong bilateral economic ties. This is exemplified 
by the Agreement between Japan and the Republic of Singapore for a New -Age Economic Partnership 
Agreement (JSEP A), which entered into force in 2002. The JSEPA was Japan’s first ever economic 
partnership agreement, and it remains a key pillar in our bilateral economic relationship. In 2019, 
Japan was the 7th largest trading partner of Singapore with bilateral trade of S$50.5 billion. Bilateral 
investment flows have also continued to be strong. As of the end of 2018, Japan was Singapore’s 
3rd largest cumulative foreign investor, with investments amounting to S$114.9 billion, while 
Singapore was Japan’s top Asian inves tor. Singapore and Japan are also strong advocates and 
supporters of the rules -based multilateral trading system. In response to the economic disruptions WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  caused by the ongoing pandemic, Singapore and Japan also issued a Joint Statement on 1 May 2020 
to dee pen bilateral economic cooperation to strengthen economic resilience and secure supply chains 
for essential goods.  
4.268.   Second, Singapore welcomes Japan’s commitment to strengthening regional economic 
integration. Japan’s leadership of the Comprehensive and Pro gressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP) and active participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
(RCEP) have played an important role in fostering greater economic integration in the region. We 
look forward to the entry into force of the First Protocol to Amend the Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership Among Japan and ASEAN (AJCEP) on 1 August 2020, after Japan’s completion of its legal 
procedures on 15 June 2020.  
4.269.   Third, Singapore and Japan are close partners in shaping eco nomic initiatives in the WTO 
and other fora. Together with Australia, Japan and Singapore are leading the Joint Statement 
Initiative (JSI) on E -Commerce, and our delegations have been working closely together to maintain 
momentum in this track. We look for ward to the development of a consolidated negotiating text by 
the end of 2020. Singapore and Japan have also worked closely to enhance transparency of 
agriculture export restrictions at the WTO. We also support the Osaka Track and the “Data Free Flow 
with Trust” concept initiated by Japan under its G20 Presidency.   
4.270.   As we work together in upholding our shared commitment to the rules -based multilateral 
trading system, we encourage Japan to maintain its openness to foreign investments. In particular, 
Singapor e notes Japan’s amendments to its Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act. While we fully 
appreciate Japan’s intention to balance its national security interests with its interest in attracting 
foreign investments, we hope that commercially -run entities wit h a credible and established track 
record in Japan will not be disadvantaged in accessing investment opportunities. We also encourage 
Japan to submit up -to-date notifications on domestic support in agriculture and government 
procurement.  
4.271.   In conclusion, Sin gapore looks forward to strengthening bilateral economic engagement as 
well as deepening regional and global collaboration, particularly at the WTO. The Singapore 
delegation also takes this opportunity to commend the excellent work of Ambassador Yamazaki 
Kazuyuki and his team in Geneva. We wish Japan every success for this TPR.  
THAILAND  
4.272.   At the outset, Thailand associates itself with ASEAN statement delivered by the Philippines.  
4.273.   Thailand and Japan have a strong foundation of mutual friendship and cooperation , 
underpinned by continued expansion of trade and investment. We are pleased to highlight that Japan 
is Thailand’s second largest trading partner in the world while Thailand is number one trading partner 
for Japan in ASEAN. In 2019, total trade between the  two countries stood at USD 58 billion, 
increasing by 7% since Japan’s last review in 2017.  
4.274.   On investment, Japan has been a major source of investment for Thailand over decades, 
which has strongly contributed to Thailand's economic growth. In 2019, Foreig n direct investment 
flows from Japan amounted to USD 2.5 billion. Presently, more than 1,700 Japanese companies are 
registered at the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok. Thailand hopes that our bilateral 
trade and investment will continue to grow to f urther strengthen economic relations.  
4.275.   Thailand congratulates Japan on its overall positive economic performance since 2017. We 
welcome Japan’s efforts in promoting its economic growth and encourage Japan to continue 
implementing trade -related structural re forms needed to improve the functioning of its economy.  
4.276.   Thailand highly commends Japan for its firm commitment in strengthening the rules -based 
multilateral trading system. Over the review period, Japan has actively contributed to several 
initiatives inclu ding the Joint Statement Initiative on E -Commerce and the proposal on enhancing 
transparency and strengthening notification requirements. Japan’s commitment extends to its 
compliance with WTO notification obligations where we note its strong record of noti fications to the 
WTO. In addition, excellent chairmanship of Japan in the Dispute Settlement Body, the General 
Council and other committees represent the leadership and achievement of Japan in the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.277.   In this review, Thailand submitted a set of questions,  covering the policies and measures of 
our interests. We take the opportunity to thank Japan for its timely responses.   
4.278.   Let me conclude by expressing our appreciation to the Japanese delegation for the 
cooperation in every level. We wish Japan a very succ essful Trade Policy Review.  
GUATEMALA  
4.279.   We would like there to be recognition in this Review of the solid research carried out by the 
WTO Secretariat, as reflected in the report under discussion today. Its contents provide us with a 
comprehensive picture of the macroeconomic situation and the evolution of the trade policies 
implemented by Japan over the last two years. We also take the opportunity to extend our most 
sincere gratitude to Ambassador Dagfinn Sørli, Permanent Representati ve of Norway to the WTO, 
for the presentation and highly objective and thorough analysis that he has kindly shared with us 
today, in his capacity as discussant.  
4.280.   1Diplomatic relations between Guatemala and Japan commenced in 1935, since when they 
have been characterized by close bonds of friendship and cooperation in the different areas of their 
respective foreign policy. In the 1970s, our countries signed agreements to strengthen technical and 
financial cooperation, and, ever since, Japan has been one of th e main cooperation partners in 
Guatemala. Similarly, in the 1990s, the Government of Japan backed the signing of the peace 
agreements in Guatemala and increased its support in order to contribute to economic development 
and the consolidation of democracy i n our country.  
4.281.   In terms of trade, Japan is an important trading partner for Guatemala. The main products 
Guatemala exports to Japan are coffee, bananas, sesame seeds and nickel. In the opposite direction, 
the main products imported from Japan are vehicles and transportation equipment, machines and 
mechanical apparatus for electronic use, iron and steel.  
4.282.   From the trade policy report before us today, we note that the Japanese authorities have 
taken significant steps to support economic growth by implementing measures to stimulate private 
consumption, introducing fiscal changes to improve the country's public finances and boost 
competitiveness, and raising employment and female labour force participation. As part of the 
improvements implemented in the period under review, it is important to highlight the various 
strategies to attract more inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI). Another aspect to highlight is 
the work undertaken by the University Network for Innovation and Technology Transfer, wh ich 
promotes partnerships between research institutions, academia and industry in order to secure the 
licensing of technology. This has become an important resource in continuing the process of 
revitalizing its economy.  
4.283.   We recognize Japan's significant eff orts and achievements during the review period. We 
would like to thank it in advance for its replies to the questions raised by Guatemala during the 
course of this Review.  
4.284.   We hope to go on strengthening our important trade links, and wish the Japanese dele gation 
a successful conclusion to its country's Trade Policy Review.  
4.285.   Let us conclude by expressing appreciation for Japan's commitment.  
ICELAND  
4.286.   Japan and Iceland have a long history of shared values and Iceland regards Japan among 
one of its closest global  partners. Japan is Iceland's largest export partner in Asia and the largest 
trading partner that we do not have a free trade agreement with. Japanese market has for long been 
one of the most important market for Icelandic seafood products.  
4.287.   Imports from J apan amounted to close to 2% of total imports, with main products including 
motor vehicles and electronic equipment. Iceland and Japan have also been working towards further 
strengthening the collaboration in the field of geothermal energy.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.288.   Despite the geo graphical distance, Iceland and Japan are like -minded partners enjoying 
excellent cooperation in various international fora and sharing commitments to promoting a rule -
based multilateral system.  
4.289.   Japan was one of 120 WTO Members and Observers that launched  a Joint Declaration on 
Women and Economic Empowerment that aims at sharing best practices and working together here 
at the WTO to remove barriers for women’s economic empowerment and increase their participation 
in trade.  
4.290.   In this respect , Iceland thanks the Secretariat for the specific information on Japan’s policies 
promoting women’s economic empowerment in its report. Japan has enforced labour force reforms, 
to promote women's participation in the work force through measures such as increased childcare 
capacity, increased childcare leave benefits, training and education programmes, and more flexible 
working conditions.  
4.291.   The trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices in this field. 
Iceland submitted advance written quest ions on the participation of women in the economy of Japan. 
The answers are very useful as we implement the joint declaration on trade and women’s economic 
empowerment and gather best practices.  
4.292.   Given the very unusual circumstances of this review and the c urrent developments due to 
the COVID -19 pandemic, Iceland wishes the Japanese delegation good health and every success for 
the success for their Trade Policy Review.  
TURKEY  
4.293.   Japan remains the world’s third largest economy in GDP terms. As a major actor of t he global 
trading system, the role Japan plays multilaterally is important.  
4.294.   Japan is also one of the world’s most diverse economies and the world’s fifth most 
competitive economy, with the services sector constituting its backbone. As was stated during 
Japan’s previous TPR meetings and indicated in the Secretariat report, ageing population, high public 
debt, and persistent deflation continues to remain primary challenges in the way of continued 
growth.  
4.295.   Furthermore, during the report period the pace of the growth of the economy has been 
moderate due also to external factors, such as the decline in the global demand for IT related goods 
and the slowdown in the world economy, especially in Asian countries, most important trade partners 
of Japan.  
4.296.   During the rev iew period, we see that Japan implemented several structural reforms 
pursuing to enhance the trade and investment in several areas, such as taxation, corporate 
governance, competition policy and labour market policies. In this perspective, we see that rece nt 
strategies and programmes such as the 2018 White Paper on International Economy and Trade, the 
evolving Abenomics programme; the 2016 Japan Revitalization Strategy; the Future Investment 
Strategy; the New Economic Policy Package are good blueprints to c ontinue those reforms.  
4.297.   Among these plans, we especially see Japan’s Science and Technology Plan as an enriched 
guidance to achieve further innovation in science and technology.  
4.298.   We consider the new regional trade agreements of Japan, namely Comprehensive a nd 
Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the EU -Japan EPA, among primary 
drivers of Japan’s trade and economy.  
4.299.   When it comes to investments, Japan, as one of the largest investors in the world, is also 
one of the most attractive d estinations for multinational companies, including Turkish companies. 
We note that there are still restrictions in some sectors including the telecommunications, 
broadcasting and radio sectors and prior notification and approval requirements are in place f or 
certain investments on various grounds.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.300.   Japan is among the key players in the WTO and displays a constructive and active role in 
further advancing and also preserving the rules based multilateral trading system. We find Japan’s 
efforts and leadership es pecially noteworthy in advancing work at the WTO on the Joint Statement 
Initiatives, like e -commerce. We value our cooperation with Japan especially in the services domestic 
regulation and investment facilitation initiatives.  
4.301.   On the bilateral front, located at the eastern and western ends of Asian continent , Turkey 
and Japan enjoy excellent relations. We signed the joint declaration of Strategic Partnership in 2013. 
Japan is also among priority countries within our regional “Asia Anew” initiative.  
4.302.   As of 2018, around 200 Japanese companies have been operating in Turkey. Recently, the 
Japanese foreign direct investment in Turkey, ranging from automotive, technology, machinery, 
energy sectors to logistics and infrastructure, amounted to USD 2,2 billion. Japan and Turkey ha ve 
a strong cooperation on several mega -projects in several sectors, including but not limited to finance, 
infrastructure, health, energy, tourism and education.  
4.303.   Our bilateral trade volume, at around USD 4.2 billion in 2019 and Japan is Turkey’s fourth 
largest trading partner in the Asia -Pacific region. However, we see this level of trade still does not 
mirror our excellent political and economic relations and should be further developed towards mutual 
benefit and balanced trade.  
4.304.   In ensu ring this and further deepening commercial and investment relations, we believe 
FTA negotiation between our countries, that began in 2014, will play a very significant role.  
4.305.   We believe that agriculture, constituting almost 40% of Turkey’s total exports to Japan can 
also play a pivotal role to this end. However, Japan, being a net importer in agricultural products 
and island country, implements various procedures in relation to the importation of agricultural and 
animal products which also affect Turkey’s ag ricultural exports. During the review period, 
importation procedures for some of the agricultural products such as lemon and grapefruit have 
been facilitated. We hope that our countries keep their engagement at bilateral level and reach 
similar positive ou tcomes for other products in the coming period.  
4.306.   Besides, we also commend Japan’s efforts and comprehensive approach in securing food 
safety in response to the nuclear accident in 2011. The recent reports and data submitted by the 
Japanese government and ou r studies have already demonstrated that Japanese food is safe and an 
effective control and monitoring system is in place. Concerning this issue, Turkey terminated the 
application of additional control measures in relation to the importation of agricultura l and food 
products originating in Japan as of the beginning of 2018.  
4.307.   With regard to Japan’s trade regime, Turkey submitted a series of questions covering a broad 
range of topics, and look s forward to Japan’s response to these questions.  
4.308.   Turkey will continue its close and fruitful dialogue with Japan in both bilateral and multilateral 
platforms.  
4.309.   We wish Japan a successful Trade Policy R eview.  
ZIMBABWE  
4.310.   The Governments of Zimbabwe and Japan en joy excellent diplomatic trade and investment 
relations dating back to Zimbabwe's independence in 1980.  
4.311.   On trade, we are happy to report that, between 2012 and 2016, trade increased from 
USD 336 million to USD 1.054 billion in 2016.  
4.312.   Zimbabwe’s imports from  Japan are mainly composed of motor vehicles and IT products 
such as machinery and equipment, electrical and electronic goods among other things, while the 
main exports from Zimbabwe include minerals and agricultural products.  
4.313.   Our small and medium -sized en terprises participated in the Japan International Food and 
Beverages Trade Show (FOODEX Japan) which has served to advertise our produce to the Japanese WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  and Asian markets. The Government of Zimbabwe's policy on natural and organic foods places huge 
potenti al, for trade in these commodities are in great demand in Japan. There is a need to establish 
and develop long -term synergies with Japanese food distributors.  
4.314.   In terms of investment, Zimbabwe is home to Astra industry, Japanese brands such as 
Honda, Nissan , Sharpe and Sony, just to a name a few, which are commonly distributed in 
Zimbabwe.  
4.315.   Finally, there is a unique opportunity for the two Governments to act together in 
manufacturing in pharmaceuticals and chemicals, electronic goods, machinery and equipment , 
motor vehicles and components, and laboratory equipment, among others.  
4.316.   We wish Japan a successful Trade Policy Review.  
VIET  NAM 
4.317.   Viet Nam associates itself with the statement of ASEAN delivered by the Philippines.  
4.318.   Viet Nam recognizes the importance of Japan’s economy for the world trade, the Asia -Pacific 
region, and for Viet Nam in particular. Since the previous Trade Policy Review, the overall picture of 
the Japanese economy has become more positive with the success of Japan’s Abenomics i n 
stimulating the Japanese economy and policies for trade, investment and development.  
4.319.   We highly appreciate the strong commitment and important contribution of Japan in 
strengthening the rules -based multilateral trading system. We welcome Japan’s active en gagement 
in liberalization of trade and investment under the WTO framework, and other international fora 
such as G7, G20, APEC and other regional mechanisms to address challenges to global trade. Japan’s 
strong track record in complying with WTO notificati on obligations also serves as a good example 
for other Members in strengthening the Organization.  
4.320.   Bilaterally, Japan is one of the most important and long -standing trade and investment 
partners of Viet Nam. The two countries signed the Economic Partnershi p Agreement (VJEPA) in 
December 2008, effective in October 2009, which is the first comprehensive free trade agreement 
of Viet Nam. Both Japan and Viet Nam are Parties to the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (AJCEP), the Comprehensive and Pro gressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP), and have been participating in the negotiations for a Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RCEP).  
4.321.   The total trade volume between Japan and Viet Nam reached nearly USD 40 billion in 2019, 
up 5.5% compared to 2018, in which, Viet Nam’s exports to Japan in 2019 reached USD 20 billion, 
up to 8.4% compared to 2018.  
4.322.   Japan is also one of the biggest foreign investors in Viet Nam. Since the CPTPP entered into 
force, there are 435 new projects of Ja panese enterprises in Viet Nam, with a total investment of 
around USD 4 billion. These projects cover numerous sectors, including the manufacturing and 
processing industry, real estate business, wholesale and retail, repair of automobiles, motors and 
motor bikes, and construction. With USD 2.5 billion investment, manufacturing and processing 
industry remained the focus of Japan’s investment last year. These figures speak for themselves, 
reflecting Japan’s key role of trade and investment partner for Viet Nam . 
4.323.   Before concluding our statement, I would like to take this opportunity to express our high 
appreciation to Ambassador  Yamazaki  Kazuyuki and his able team for their active contribution and 
participation in the WTO’s activities, and wish Japan every succes s in its fourteenth Trade Policy 
Review.  
AFGHANISTAN  
4.324.   My delegation commends Japan for presenting its comprehensive trade policy report and 
modest economic recovery during the review period. We are impressed to see that the private 
consumption and business investment are on the increase, supported by continued improvements WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  in the employment and income situation and high corporate profits. We commend Japan's 
commitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on WTO.  
4.325.   Afghanistan values its friendly relations with Japan. The relations between Afghanistan and 
Japan have a long history, and the Afghan people have a strong sense of trust and affinity towards 
Japan, as a country that has achieved rapid economic growth and development.  
4.326.   We acknowledge the very instrumental role of Japan amongst other friends and allies of 
Afghanistan during the past 19 years including hosting the first International Conference on 
Reconstruction Assistance to Afghanistan in 2002.  
4.327.   Afghanistan specifically r ecognizes and appreciates the commitment that Japan has shown 
in Afghanistan's reconstruction, economic development, and institutional building in the past two 
decades.  
4.328.   Meanwhile, I would like to recognize Japan's significant contributions to the launch of  the 
Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce among two other co -chair namely, Australia and 
Singapore, and for supporting the LDC accessions through technical assistance to accession 
applicants for building their trade capacity and for effective participation in the discussions related 
to various items of the development agenda such as Aid for Trade.  
4.329.   Considering the recent challenges facing the multilateral trading system, Afghanistan counts 
on Japan's role among others in preserving an open, rules-based multilateral trading system with 
the WTO at its core.  
4.330.   I conclude my statement by wishing Japan's delegation a very successful and productive 
Trade Policy Review.  
TAJIKISTAN  
4.331.   We appreciate the efforts of the Government of Japan and the Secretaria t in producing the 
reports circulated wel l ahead of the meeting and the d iscussant for his insights. The Reports provide 
comprehensive details on the developments in Japan’s economic and trade policy since its last 
review.  
4.332.   Diplomatic ties between the two countries were established in February  1992. The issues 
related to the development of friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries have 
been considered at the meeting of the Founder of Peace and National Unity – Leader of the Nation, 
President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon with Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe 
and Emperor of Japan Akihito during the State visit of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan to 
Japan in October 2018.  
4.333.   Constructive exchange of views was he ld on the expansion of political, economic, investment, 
trade, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation. It was emphasized that “Japan, as an advanced 
country in the world, takes a special place in the foreign policy of our country, and Tajikistan r egards 
Japan as an important partner in the international arena from the beginning of its independence” . 
Over the years of cooperation , the Government of Japan has implemented over 426 social projects 
in Tajikistan and all these projects coincide with the strategic goals of the Government of the 
Republic of Tajikistan. Particular attention was paid to the expansion of cooperation in the areas of 
finance, attracting Japanese investment in the economy of Tajikistan and implementation of joint 
projects in the private sector.  
4.334.   Tajikistan is interested in the active participation of the Japanese side in the implementation 
of projects for the construction of medium -capacity hydroelectric power plants and strengthening of 
cooperation in the field of mining, transpor tation, agriculture, tourism and pharmaceuticals.  
4.335.   The foreign trade turnover between Tajikistan and Japan for 2019 amounted 
USD 68.1 million and increased by USD 2.9 million comparing to 2018. Of the total amount of foreign 
trade turnover import constitute s USD 66.2 million with an increase of USD 2.5 million (104%) 
comparing to 2018. Export constituted USD 1.2 million with an increase of USD 0.4 million (150%) WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  comparing to 2018. The share of trade with Japan in the total foreign trade turnover of the 
Repub lic of Tajikistan for 2019 is 1.5%.  
4.336.   As the expansion of trade cooperation with Japan is in the interests of both states it is 
important to make use of available opportunities for the development of trade relations between 
Tajikistan and Japan.  
4.337.   This fourt eenth Trade Policy Review of Japan provides a great opportunity to improve our 
understanding of its trade and investment regime. We appreciate the efforts of the Government of 
Japan and the Secretariat in producing the reports and the Discussant for the in sights. The Reports 
provide comprehensive details on the developments in Japan’s economic and trade policy since its 
last review.  
4.338.   The Republic of Tajikistan commends Japan for significant achievements made since  its last 
TPR. Since its previous TPR , Japan continued to support growth by easing financial conditions, 
reducing the fiscal deficit, and raising employment and female labour force participation. Japan's 
highly -developed, high -income and market -oriented economy remains the world's third largest, 
behind the United States and China, in GDP terms with GDP per capita of USD 38.3 thousand as of 
2017. Annual GDP growth peaked at 1.9% in 2017, and its annual average rate stood at 1.1% 
(2016 -18).  
4.339.   We welcome the efforts of Japan, particularly to advance WTO r eform discussions and its 
active engagement in a number of plurilateral and multilateral initiatives at the WTO, including joint 
ministerial statements on e -commerce, investment facilitation for development, MSMEs, services 
domestic regulation and Joint De claration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment.  
4.340.   Japan is a signatory to the ITA, participated in the ITA expansion negotiations and is a party 
to the GPA. Japan accepted the 2005 Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement in 2007 and ratified 
the TFA in J une 2015. During the review period, Japan submitted numerous notifications to the WTO 
and since 1 January 2017 has been involved in two new dispute settlement cases as a complainant 
and 34 new cases as third party.  
4.341.   In conclusion the Republic of Tajikistan highly appreciates the hard work and strong 
commitment of Japan and wishes a very successful and productive Trade Policy Review.  
URUGUAY  
4.342.   Efforts made by the Japanese Government to support growth, reduce fiscal deficit and raise 
employment and female labour  force participation, thus ensuring the longest economic expansion in 
Japan's post war history, are particularly noteworthy.  
4.343.   1According to the report by the Secretariat, Japan has maintained its position as the world's 
third largest and fifth most competitive economy. We also note that no substantial changes in income 
inequality and the poverty gap have been observed.  
4.344.   On the other hand, we note that the fall in global demand for information technology products 
and the slowdown in the economy have be en hindering exports from certain sectors since 2018. This 
has resulted in a slowdown in industrial production.  
4.345.   With regard to its bilateral relationship, in 2019 approximately 50 different products were 
exported to Japan, with meat extracts in first place , followed by wool and prepared and preserved 
meat. Also worth highlighting is the export of wood chips, chemical products, fish and shellfish. On 
the other hand, the main imported products from Japan have been motor vehicles and general 
machinery.  
4.346.   We woul d like to highlight that in April 2017 the bilateral investment treaty between Uruguay 
and Japan entered into force in order to promote investments and strengthen economic relations 
between the two countries. The treaty seeks to create stable, predictable,  favourable and equitable 
conditions for increased investments by both countries based on the principles of fairness and mutual 
benefit.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.347.   Japan and Uruguay agree that the only way to face the current world trade challenges is by 
preserving and strengthening  the multilateral trading system, a fundamental tool to ensure open, 
equitable and predictable trade. Furthermore, we commend the efforts made by Japan to lead the 
joint initiative on electronic commerce with a view to achieving substantive results before the 
Twelfth  Ministerial Conference.  
4.348.   In Uruguay's view, the policies aimed at promoting MSMEs are of particular importance. In 
this regard, we commend the efforts of the Japanese Government to reform the regulatory 
framework in which SMEs operate in order t o reduce barriers and promote their participation in 
government procurement. We would also like to highlight its active participation in the WTO informal 
group on MSMEs.  
4.349.   In conclusion, we would like to reiterate our appreciation of this latest exercise in the sharing 
of Japan's trade practices while congratulating the country's mission team in Geneva, headed by 
Ambassador Yamazaki, on its work and active participation in this Organization. We would like to 
wish the Japanese delegation a successful conclusio n to its Trade Policy Review.  
PANAM A 
4.350.   According to the Secretariat's report, during the review period Japan continued to prioritize 
openness of international trade and its integration into the world economy and global value chains, 
as reflected in the ratio  of its trade in goods and services to GDP.  
4.351.   We note that Japan has made some important and positive amendments to its legislation on 
anti-dumping  and countervailing measures aimed to ease the conditions for applicants requesting 
the imposition of these mea sures. There were also various changes to Japan's export control regime 
with respect to goods and destinations.  
4.352.   Japan attaches great importance to intellectual property. Its Intellectual Property Strategy 
Vision seeks to provide a medium to long term perspective on the evolution of society and the IP 
system.  
4.353.   Panama wishes to take this opportunity to acknowledge Japan's commitment to the 
multilateral trading system, its efforts and leadership during the most recent Ministerial Conferences 
and its delega tion's significant activity within the WTO.  
4.354.   Japan is a key player in the initiatives on investment facilitation, micro, small and medium 
sized enterprises (MSMEs) and domestic regulation of services, which are equally matters of great 
importance to Panama.  It is also one of the coordinators of the electronic commerce (e commerce) 
initiative.  
4.355.   Japan is also very active in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies. However, we call on Japan 
to adjust its proposal to the negotiating mandate and generate consensus  among Members.  
4.356.   We reaffirm our interest in continuing to strengthen our strategic relationship with Japan. 
We also applaud Japan for its interest in forging closer economic ties and stepping up cooperation 
with emerging economies.  
4.357.   We wish Japan a successf ul Trade Policy Review and look forward to a strengthened bilateral 
trade relationship in the future.  
MAURITIUS  
4.358.   At a time when the world is still grappling with the fallouts of the COVID -19 pandemic, the  
relevance of an open, transparent and rule -based mul tilateral trading system, with WTO at its  core, 
has become more than ever evident. For instance, through its transparency and monitoring  function, 
the organization has helped to keep track of trade related measures being taken by  members during 
these uncer tain times. Against such a backdrop, we are indeed pleased to  participate in the 
fourteenth Trade Policy Review of Japan –a major player in the multilateral  trading system and the 
world’s third largest economy.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.359.   Mauritius commends Japan for its consistent a nd active engagement in strengthening and  
maintaining a rule -based multilateral trading system, including through new ideas and  approaches 
for advancing trade negotiations at the WTO. In this regard, we welcome the  contribution and 
pro-active role of Japan  in developing trade related rules in new areas such  as investment facilitation 
for development, MSMEs, electronic commerce, and domestic  regulation in services.  
4.360.   Mauritius highly values its excellent relations with Japan. The opening of the Embassy of 
Japan  in Mauritius in 2017 has helped to further strengthen cooperation between our two countries.  
Mauritius is thankful to Japan for technical cooperation and capacity building projects in various  
sectors including climate change, health and maritime secu rity. More recently, the Japanese  
authorities have decided to provide funding, through the UNDP, for a project to support an  Inclusive 
and Multi -sectoral response to COVID -19 and addressing its impacts in Mauritius.  Furthermore, trade 
exchange has witnesse d significant increase over the last few years and Japan  is now one of our top 
ten trading partners.  
4.361.   Through the recent opening of the Mauritius Economic Development Board (EDB) Office in  
Tokyo, we look forward to further deepen and expand the scope of our  trade and investment  linkages 
and establish a secure and predictable business environment. As Africa looks forward  to upscaling 
its engagement with major partners, particularly in the context of the recently  launched African 
Continental Free Trade Area, w e hope that the EDB Office will further assist  Japanese businesses in 
tapping trade and investment opportunities in the continent. Thus , contributing in the 
implementation of the initiatives on trade and development announced at  TICAD 7 held in 
August  2019. 
4.362.   As a small island developing state, Mauritius believes in intellectual property as a tool to 
drive innovation and creativity for economic development and we are currently revamping its entire  
IP framework. The Mauritius Delegation is, therefore, pleased to note that Japan has established  
The Intellectual Property Strategy Vision and The Intellectual Property Strategic Programme  which 
will serve to develop its new ‘pro -innovation’ based intellectual property strategy vision.  In view of 
the expertise and pr actical experience of Japan in innovation and development of  technology that 
serve the purpose of economic development, Mauritius looks forward to the  cooperation of Japan in 
our endeavour towards promoting innovation.  
4.363.   To conclude, the delegation of Maurit ius wishes the delegation of Japan a successful and 
fruitful  review.  
MYANMAR  
4.364.   Myanmar aligns itself with the ASEAN Statement made by the Philippines. First of all, my 
delegation would like to congratulate the delegation of Japan for its determination and co mmitment 
for transparency in Multilateral Trading System.  
4.365.   Japan and Myanmar have established longstanding friendship and cooperation in numerous 
areas including trade, investment, human resource development and culture. Myanmar would also 
like to express our gratitude and appreciation to Japan for her continued support to Myanmar.  
4.366.   In bilateral trade relations, it can be observed that the bilateral trade volume is growing 
steadily in which Japan is always in favour of Myanmar. But starting from 2018 Fiscal Year, Myanmar 
regained its trade surplus due to decline in imports.  
4.367.   The major export items of Myanmar to Japan are garments and agricultural products while 
the major import items are motor vehicles and spare parts, machineries, electronics , etc.  
4.368.   According  to the Statistics from 2019 -2020 (October to April), Japan ranks as the 3rd major 
export partner and 8th major import partner of Myanmar. As of May 2020, Japan ranks as the 10th 
major investor in Myanmar.  
4.369.   Myanmar would like to appreciate Japan for its initiatives towards LDCs to benefit from 
Multilateral trading system under the Aid for Trade Programmes, One Village One Product Assistance 
and GSP Scheme.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.370.   According to the Japan’s Government report (WT/TPR/G/397), the Japan’s GSP scheme has 
been vastly im proved over the last several years and coverage rate of DFQF increased from 86% to 
approximately 98% as defined at the tariff line level. Also , the effective period of the GSP scheme 
is extended to 31 March 2021 to allow less competitive developing countri es to benefit more from 
the GSP scheme. In this regard, we would like to thank Japan for its commitments and supports 
towards LDCs.  
4.371.   In conclusion, the COVID -19 Pandemic has exacerbated the existing numerous challenges 
many countries especially LDCs are fac ing in their social economic developments. To overcome these 
challenges, we have to work together and would like to urge major investors including Japan to 
enhance its healthy investment inflows and support international production and Global Value Chain.  
4.372.   I wish Japan every success in its 14th TPR process.  
JORDAN  
4.373.   I would like to start by extending a warm welcome to the entire Japanese delegation, and to 
congratulate them for the efforts exerted in the preparation for the trade policy review and preparing 
this report.  
4.374.   We would like to thank Mr. Kenko Sone , the Head of the delegation , for his opening 
statement and introductory remarks which highlight the reforms and positive developments in the 
Japanese economy, in addition to Japan 's commitment to the multilateral trading system. I would 
like also to thank the Secretariat for their ex cellent report and the discussant for his insightful 
remarks.  
4.375.   Jordan and Japan enjoy excellent bilateral economic relations, and bilateral trade in 2019 
exceeded USD 540 million.  
4.376.   We wish Japan a fruitful and a successful Trade Policy Review.  
HONDURAS  
4.377.   The year 2020 is a special year for our countries as it marks 85 years since the founding of 
our diplomatic relations and friendship, which have allowed us to deepen our bilateral relations and 
cooperation in specific areas such as natural disaste r prevention, education, health, culture, energy, 
science and technology, support for MSMEs and investment promotion.  
4.378.   The spread of the COVID -19 pandemic has affected human health and economic activity 
worldwide. In our country, the number of infections is  growing daily and there are fears that the 
virus will spread further.  
4.379.   In this context, we should like to express our heartfelt thanks for the strong support we have 
received from the friendly Government of Japan, particularly through technical assistance 
programmes, which have helped strengthen our country's health system and its infectious disease 
control measures.  
4.380.   According to a report from the Japanese cooperation agency (JICA), Japan has invested 
approximately USD 1 billion in a number of projects seek ing to improve the social welfare of 
Hondurans, which have had an impact on poverty reduction and our population's sustainable 
economic development.  
4.381.   In respect of bilateral trade, our country recorded a USD 140 million deficit in 2019, with 
USD 159 million  in imports of vehicles, machinery, iron and electrical equipment and some 
USD 19 million in exports of coffee, fruit and fish, making Japan Honduras's third largest market in 
Asia. 
4.382.   We note from the reports that Japan seeks to be the most innovation friend ly country in the 
world and that in 2018 it occupied sixth place as regards innovation capacity and continued to be 
the world's third largest and fifth most competitive economy.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.383.   We wish to underscore that, through the implementation of the Abenomics progra mme, the 
Japanese economy has entered a non-deflationary  phase and both nominal and real GDP have 
reached their highest levels.  
4.384.   In addition, the reports indicate that in June 2018, the Intellectual Property Strategy 
Headquarters established a new mid to lo ng term vision up to 2030. We also note the legislative 
amendments on competition policy to fulfil the commitments under the Comprehensive and 
Progressive Agreement for Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and to revise the surcharge system.  
4.385.   Furthermore, we n ote that over the last 70 years, cooperation between the Government and 
industry, a strong work ethic, the dominance of high technology and a relatively small allocation to 
defence have helped Japan develop an advanced economy that is among the most compet itive in 
the world.  
4.386.   Our countries share in their commitment to the advancement of the WTO's multilateral 
trading system, which is based on rules and, inter alia, the principles of openness, transparency, 
non-discrimination , inclusion and due process.  
4.387.   Finally, we should like to acknowledge Japan's leadership in the various initiatives presented 
in this forum and commend its significant achievements and efforts during the review period. We 
wish it every success.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.388.   The period of review ha s been marked by significant adversities such as fiscal consolidation 
needs, sharp rise in social spending due to the population ageing, and large public debt. The 
COVID -19 crisis disrupted business activity, weighed on consumption and investment appetite, and 
reduced overseas demand for Japanese exports. Japan is to be commended for its huge and 
coordinated large scale fiscal and monetary stimulus to help protecting businesses and consumers 
facing the impact of COVID -19 and to support the economic  activity.  
4.389.   Despite all these challenges, Japan’s economy remains the third largest in the world. Japan 
is to be recognized for its ambitious to develop a free, fair and high -level trade rules and to continue 
its overall economic and financial reforms, part icularly in the areas of taxation, competition policy, 
corporate governance, and labour market policies.  
4.390.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Japan are prominent trading partners. Trade exchange 
between the two countries surpassed USD 38 billion in 2019. Japan is a potential partner to help 
Saudi Arabia achieve its Vision 2030 in a variety of fields, such as finance, industry, development of 
business and Public -Private Partnerships. Both countries have significantly expanded their 
cooperation in investment, smal l and medium -sized enterprises, general industry, security, and 
education.  
4.391.   Over the period of review, Japan has continued to play a central role in the reinforcement of 
the multilateral trading system and has been active in bilateral and plurilateral trade  negotiations  
4.392.   To conclude, I would like to commend H.E. Mr. Kazuyuki Yamazaki, Ambassador - Permanent 
Representative to the WTO , and his team for their active role and wish the entire delegation of Japan 
a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.393.   It brings me great satisfaction to begin by saying that 15 February of this year marked the 
85th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and El Salvador, a 
celebration that recalled the historical background to a near century old bond between two peoples. 
It was commemorated, alongside other events, in the Salvadorian capital through an art exhibition 
of photographs and drawings entitled "Kizuna", meaning "ties". The anniversary's official logo, 
depicting our country's national  bird, the turquoise browed motmot, in flight, against the backdrop 
of the red circular symbol of the Japanese flag, was presented during the exhibition.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.394.   Our trade links with Japan are also fairly close. Japan is one of El Salvador's main export 
destinatio ns for coffee, while motor vehicles are among the main products exported by Japan to 
El Salvador. Furthermore, when Japan exported its first vehicle to the western hemisphere in 1953, 
El Salvador was its first destination.  
4.395.   It is also worth highlighting Jap an's foreign direct investment in El Salvador, which amounts 
to over USD 40 million, placing Japan among the top 15 investors in our country. It is directed 
towards a number of areas including electronic components, household appliances, computer 
periphera ls and medical apparatus. Even as far back as 1955, a Japanese textile fibre company 
chose El Salvador, making it the first Japanese investment after the Second World War.  
4.396.   Cooperation is another distinctive feature of the relationship between the two countries. In 
1968, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) began sending Japanese volunteers to 
offer cooperation with our country, making El Salvador Latin America's primary destination of 
Japanese cooperation. Since then, our country has benef ited from important projects implemented 
thanks to Japanese cooperation. These projects include significant infrastructural works, such as 
El Salvador International Airport San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez, and encompass areas such 
as education, health and culture, particularly the Non Repayable Assistance Programme for 
Community Projects for Human Security (APCS), through which over 400 initiatives have been 
implemented worth an estimated 36 million dollars. Thanks to this cooperation, which serves the 
needs of the Salvadorian people, Japan has contributed to improving the living conditions of more 
than 1.4 million people.  
4.397.   In respect of this Review, in which we are honoured to take part, from the reports provided, 
we note Japan's trading strength, since it has maintained its position as the world's third largest and 
fifth most competitive economy (2018). Despite the external impacts and other factors that have 
led to a slight slowdown compared with the growth achieved during the previous review period, we  
welcome the measures implemented by the Japanese Government to revitalize the economy. The 
continuation of a number of programmes is also noteworthy. These include the Abenomics 
programme, under which the Japan Revitalization Strategy 2016 is being implem ented, the new 
Intellectual Property Strategy Vision of 2018, which runs up to 2030, and other measures such as 
financial reform and structural reforms in areas including taxation, competition policy, corporate 
governance and labour market policy.  
4.398.   Japan st ands out for its active participation in the WTO, showing the importance it gives to 
the multilateral trading system as one of the main pillars of its trade policy. It plays a significant role 
as a co-organizer  of the Joint Initiative on e -commerce and par ticipates in other plurilateral 
negotiations.  
4.399.   It only remains for me to wish Japan every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
EGYPT  
4.400.   It is a great pleasure to take part in the 14th TPR of Japan and we would like to start by 
commending the Japanese Government for its solid economic performance during the review period, 
resulting in an annual average GDP growth rate of 1.9%, in addition to the measures taken to reduce 
fiscal deficit a nd increase employment and female labour force participation, thus ensuring Japan’s 
longest economic expansion of the post -war era.  
4.401.   On the other hand, we note the disparity between the average MFN applied tariff rates for 
agricultural products of 17.9% and  that for non -agricultural products of 3.5%, as well as the relative 
complexity of the structure of MFN applied tariffs with a combination of ad valorem,  specific, 
compound, and other types of tariff duties.  
4.402.   In this regard, we call upon Japan to enhance ma rket access conditions for agricultural 
exports for developing countries.  
4.403.   Egypt and Japan enjoy longstanding cordial relations that have developed over the years 
into a partnership focused on trade, economic and cultural development.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.404.   Bilateral trade genera lly witnessed steady levels despite a brief drop in 2019 of 17% 
compared to the previous year due to the decline of Egyptian and Japanese exports by 40% and 
8.5%, respectively. However, recent data show a robust recovery in both Egyptian and Japanese 
expor ts that increased during the first quarter of 2020 by 110% and 18%, respectively, compared 
to the corresponding period in 2019.  
4.405.   We take good note of the recent positive trends yet we believe that there is a potential to 
further develop our trade relations.  In this aim, we express Egypt’s appreciation to Japan for the 
positive steps taken to grant market access for our exports of oranges starting the upcoming season. 
Nonetheless, we believe that new partial trade agreements concluded by Japan should not 
undermine market access to third countries, taking into account the relative provisions stipulated in 
Article 24 of GAT, particularly Article XXIV:8(b). 
4.406.   On the investment front, direct Japanese investments in Egypt are estimated at around 
USD 880 million, prom inent in several areas, mainly energy, electronics and automobiles. We look 
forward to further enhance our investment cooperation and attract more Japanese investments to 
Egypt, especially in the fields of infrastructure and technology transfer.  
4.407.   In the end , Egypt would like to wish the Japanese delegation a fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
CAMBODIA  
4.408.   Cambodia associates itself with the statement made by Chad on behalf of the LDC group and 
the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN Member States.  
4.409.   We acknowledge the effor ts of the hard working and excellent cooperation between ASEAN 
and Japan towards achieving the ASEAN -Japan 10 -year Strategic Economic Cooperation, and our 
commitments to implement the existing agreements including the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive 
Economic Par tnership which has served as the foundation for trade and investment relation for both 
sides.  
4.410.   We wish to congratulate Japan for maintaining its remarkable economic performance since 
its last review and also applaud Japan for preserving its position as the  world’s third largest economy.  
4.411.   On the bilateral relation: Japan is a main trading partner for Cambodia. Since we established 
diplomatic relations in 1953, Japan and Cambodia have maintained and strengthened excellent 
relation. Both sides commit to build p rominent progresses for trade and development cooperation.  
4.412.   In 2019, Cambodia exported about USD 1.7 billion mostly apparel, clothing and foot wears 
to Japan; and imported from Japan around USD 562 million, mainly vehicles, machinery, mechanical 
applicatio ns and equipment and so on so forth.  
4.413.   With regard to the ODA: Japan has been active in providing assistance for development in 
Cambodia such as for social, economic infrastructure, agriculture, health and human resource 
development. Japanese ODA to Cambodia  in the past ten years has reached more than 
USD 700 million, accounting for 25 % of all assistance to Cambodia. I would like to take this 
opportunity to thank Japan for extending assistance for the development and for the recent pledge 
of over USD 6 million, comprising of medical supplies to support Government’s efforts in combating 
the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.414.   At the WTO: we thank and appreciate the delegation of Japan in Geneva led by ambassador 
Yamazaki Kazuyuki, for the friendship and good cooperation. We commend Japan for putting its 
efforts and active participation in upholding and building -up rule -based multilateral trading system. 
We particularly appreciate Japan for the generous supports to LDCs including Cambodia through 
granting DFQF market access  under the Japanese GSP Schemes. In accordance with the secretariat’s 
report, Cambodia was the third main beneficiary of the GSP scheme in 2017 and 2018.  
4.415.   Also, we recognize Japan for its works and supports LDC’s proposals and efforts under this 
organizati on. We encourage Japan to continue its outstanding action in supporting LDCs in the 
purpose of reducing the development’s gap and alleviating the poverty.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.416.   Finally, we commit to working closely with Japan to strengthen the cooperation in related 
fields incl uding trade, investment and works at the WTO.  
4.417.   I wish Japan a successful 14th Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.418.   My delegation notes with interest Japan’s continued economic advancements, despite minor 
slowdown in average GDP growth during the period under review compared to previous review 
period. It is noteworthy the Government’s economic stimulus measures that war rant Japan's longest 
economic expansion of the post -war era. Notwithstanding minor setbacks, Japan has been able to 
maintain its position as the world's third largest economy and an important player in global trade, 
while being one of the largest trading p artners for many countries, including Sri Lanka.  
4.419.   Conferring a high level of predictability, Japan maintains a minimal gap between its MFN 
applied duties and bound duties at multilateral level. A slight increase in average applied MFN tariff 
is observed co mpared to the previous review period and a significant difference of 14.4% is being 
maintained between simple average applied tariff of agricultural and non -agricultural products. In 
addition, it is observed the high degree of complexity of the MFN applied  tariff structure of Japan 
with 272 different tariff rates.  
4.420.   As reported in the reports, Japan offers preferential tariff treatment to 128 developing 
economies and five territories under its GSP scheme. Though Sri Lanka has not been subject to a 
criteria u nder mechanism of graduation either under entire graduation or partial graduation or 
product -by-exclusion and also been among the first 15 Main beneficiaries of GSP scheme having 
placed in 12th 14th place in 2018 ranking, its share of utilization of the pr eferences still remains at 
very a low level 0.5% in 2017 and 0.7% in 2018, which is a sense of a considerable concern to Sri 
Lanka. The Existing Japanese GSP scheme provides limited preferential access to Sri Lanka and 
concessions are also not deep enough due to the wider asymmetry of countries eligible for the GSP 
scheme. This situation may not be due to any direct violation of WTO principles by the Japan. But 
Sri Lanka views that there should be a mechanism somewhat similar to the EU -GSP scheme to treat 
small and vulnerable countries differently having insignificant GSP import market shares in the 
Japanese market and to accord them duty free market access to their products. Sri Lanka is ready 
to engage with Japan with a view to pursuing this proposal furth er.  
4.421.   Apart from this complex tariff structure and high rate of duties applied for certain agricultural 
products, for instance tea, our exporters experience comparatively low entry barriers in the Japanese 
market than other important export markets of Sri L anka. With regard to MRL of a certain chemical 
component contained in Ceylon Tea exported to Japan (MCPA), Sri Lanka intends to enter into 
negotiations with Japanese Authorities to set a higher level of MRL than what is applied at present, 
in line with sim ilarly consumed food products. Sri Lanka expects to commence a dialogue with the 
Japanese authorities both in Tokyo and Geneva to raise its concerns formally and find solutions to 
address such measures affecting our main exports.  
4.422.   Japan is the 10th biggest  export destination for Sri Lankan merchandises and the 5th largest 
source of supply of imports for Sri Lanka. Trade balance is continued to be in favour of Japan, given 
the fact that Sri Lanka’s exports are concentrated on handful of items which do not at tract high 
values such as tea, fish, rubber products, apparel and textiles, and ceramics. In contrast, Sri Lanka 
faces high import bills from Japan albeit low volume of motor vehicles, machinery, electronic goods 
and equipment.  
4.423.   Given the significant stanc e of Japan in the global trade context, some of the Japanese trade 
policy procedures and engagements with other trading partners, though they are fully compliance 
with relevant WTO principles, create de  facto barriers for small economies like Sri Lanka. Th is is 
worst for countries that do not have preferential trading arrangements with Japan, other than the 
GSP scheme.  
4.424.   As a main proponent of the multilateral trading system, Japan makes sure to adhere to nodal 
principles of WTO system in formulating their i nternational trade policy, while maintaining the 
respective transparency obligations at a satisfactory level.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.425.   Japan was the largest aid donor to Sri Lanka until 2007 and is a major contributor to 
Sri Lanka’s infrastructure development. This led to the tran sformation of Sri Lanka’s relationship 
with Japan from aid to trade and then investment. Along with economic co -operation, Japan has 
been providing cultural aid to Sri Lanka since 1970’s. Japanese developmental aid has been 
instrumental in infrastructure d evelopment projects as well as institutional building projects in 
Sri Lanka.  
4.426.   In 1982, an Investment Protection Agreement was signed between two countries to facilitate 
more Japanese investment in Sri Lanka. However, regrettably, only small quantities of J apanese 
investments could be attracted into Sri Lanka.  
4.427.   In concluding, my delegation appreciates Japan’s highly valued contribution to the 
multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the negotiations. The dynamic role played 
by Ambassador Yama zaki and his team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing activities of 
WTO, is highly commendable. We sincerely wish Japanese delegation a successful deliberation on 
its 14th Trade Policy Review.  
CHAD  ON BEHALF  OF THE LDC GROUP  
4.428.   Japan is a major player in world trade, it currently represents the 3rd largest economy in the 
world.  
4.429.   In the current Japan Trade Policy Review, it is recognized that the Japanese economy has 
recovered at a moderate pace.  
4.430.   It is also recognized that the Japanese economy has been weakened by the slowdown of the 
world economy in 2018 and by the increase in protectionist measures. In 2017, the Japanese GDP 
growth rate w as 1.9%, against 0.8% in 2018.  
4.431.   Obviously, it will also be necessary to estimate the impact on GDP of the unexpe cted 
COVID -19 crisis, which has not been taken into account in the elaboration of the current Report.  
4.432.   Japan is a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system and of an open and rules -based 
trading regime. The country is fully involved in the negotia tions at the WTO and is committed to 
improving the way the Organization works, so that the latter can deliver positive results for its 
Members.  
4.433.   The LDC Group welcomes the initiatives undertaken by Japan in order to consolidate its 
anchoring in the world ec onomy, in particular through the strengthening of its outward and inward 
FDI, its objective of strengthening its economy by increasing domestic demand, by enhancement of 
creativity and value.  
4.434.   Japan has developed strategic visions in terms of investment in  human -capital, in terms of 
intellectual property, in terms of financial reform and in terms of competition policy. These visions 
and reform projects aim to promote competitiveness and constant progress in the Japanese economy 
and society, involving the op ening as well to the rest of the world.  
4.435.   From the LDC Group point of view, our Group welcomes the duty -free and quota -free market 
access conditions that are offered by Japan, up to almost 98% of its tariff lines for agricultural and 
non-agricultural product s. 
4.436.   Also, the LDC Group welcomes Japan's commitment as part of the aid for trade promotion 
in favour of developing countries and LDCs. Indeed, since 2005 and the Hong Kong declaration, 
Japan has provided approximately USD 72 billion worth of Aid for Trade r elated assistance as of 
2017.  
4.437.   Among the L DCs, many of whom are African, w e welcome the holding of the 7th Tokyo 
International Conference on African Development, in Yokohama, in August 2019, which aims to 
promote business between Japan and Africa.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.438.   We are a lso pleased that Japan has notified in 2017 its preferential rules of origin in favour 
of LDCs, as part of the Nairobi Decision.  
4.439.   In 2018, around 1.7% of imports, out of the total amount of imports, enter under GSP 
benefits from developing countries and LD Cs, according to the Secretariat Report.  
4.440.   We hope that this level can be increased in the future and balanced among the various LDCs 
around the world.  
4.441.   With the aim of deepening trade relations in the future between Japan and the LDC Group 
Members, we take this opportunity to renew to Japan our best wishes for full success in its reforms 
and as part of its Trade Policy Review.  
MALI 
4.442.   Mali fully appreciates the resilience of the Japanese people to the many natural disasters it 
has endured. The Development Cooperation Charter, adopted in 2015 by the Japanese Government 
and implemented in Africa through the Tokyo International Conference on African Development 
(TICAD), exemplifies the perfect cooperation that exists between Japan, Africa and the l east 
developed countries (LDCs).  
4.443.   Mali should like to extend its thanks to Japan for being among the first countries to have 
recognized it a month after its independence in October 1960. Against the backdrop of this 
relationship of almost 60 years, Mali ope ned its embassy in Japan in 2002 and the Japanese 
representation opened in Mali in January 2008.  
4.444.   Under this cooperation, Mali has benefited from approximately USD 220 million, while the 
Ministry of Trade has also received XOF 46 billion in credit.  
4.445.   We wish Japan every success with this Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.446.   Currently 3rd largest economy of the world, Japan is the 7th largest export destination of 
Bangladesh and the first in Asia. Exports from Bangladesh includes woven garments, knit goods, 
leather products and others. Currently, Bangladesh is the third largest supplier of apparel products 
to Japan having 4.1% share in Japanese market. Bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Japan now 
stands over USD 3 billion. In 2018 -19 total export to Japan was USD 1.37 billion  with 20.74% growth 
rate and which may decrease to USD 1.2 billion in 2020 due to COVID -19. 
4.447.   Japanese AfT initiatives have been contributing to enhancing the trade capacities of 
developing countries especially the LDCs and Japan has been providing various s upport measures 
for AfT. World trade and development process should be inclusive , and Japan has been doing that 
by partnering the development initiatives by the developing countries including LDCs. Bangladesh 
as an LDC has been benefitted from this and exp ressing gratitude and best wishes to Japan. After 
adoption of the Hong Kong Declaration in 2005, Japan has provided approximately USD 72 billion 
worth of AfT related assistance as of 2017.  
4.448.   As a close and the single largest development partner of Bangladesh , Japan has been 
contributing in many areas of developments. Bangladesh appreciates Japanese engagement and 
likes to emphasize that these steps would strengthen in this less developed part of the world to 
develop its trade and investment which will lead to  cope up with the changing scenario of world 
trade and development. This will also create employment opportunities and raise in real income of 
the this less developed country.  
4.449.   In 2019, total FDI from Japan to Bangladesh was USD 73 million. Bangladesh requ ests that 
Japan will extend policy support for investing in manufacturing and other sectors in Bangladesh. 
Government of Bangladesh is keen to support Japanese investments.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.450.   As a founding Member of the WTO, Bangladesh supports in rule based multilateral tr ading 
system and believes in coming days Japan and WTO’s role will be more prominent in the field of 
trade and development and achieving SDG.  
4.451.   Bangladesh once again congratulates the delegation of Japan in Geneva and wish successful 
14th TPR.  
SOUTH  AFRICA  
4.452.   Japan and South Africa enjoy strong and growing bilateral trade and investment relations. 
Japan was South Africa's 6th largest export partner in 2019 and ranked 8th among South Africa's 
import suppliers with total trade which stood at USD 7.1 billion in 20 19.  
4.453.   We note with appreciation that Africa is one of the key emerging economies with which Japan 
wants to reinforce economic ties and cooperation as contained in the 2018 White Paper on 
International Economy and Trade. In this context, it will be important  to ensure alignment of 
objectives with Agenda 2063 and the AfCFTA which at its core aims to promote industrialization and 
structural transformation of the African continent. This is especially important in view of the 
challenges presented by COVID -19 and the need to promote economic recovery and build resilience 
in the economy.  
4.454.   In the period under review, Japan maintained positive growth and a relatively low 
unemployment rate which declined significantly to 2.4% in 2018 which is less than half of the OECD 
average (5.3%). Most notably, is the simultaneous hiring of new graduates, which helps to avoid 
periods of joblessness and contributes to the relatively low youth unemployment rate.  
4.455.   The Secretariat report states that Japan is an open and diversified e conomy. However, it 
also states that Japan 's structure of the MFN applied tariff remains complex and that in 2019, Japan's 
overall simple average applied MFN tariff rate rose slightly to 6.3% (up from 6.1% in 2016).  
4.456.   We are concerned that the simple averag e tariff rate for agricultural products is 17.9%. While 
understanding the need for each Member to maintain policy space for food security, we would like 
to emphasize that agriculture is an area where many developing countries have comparative 
advantage and  with the right conditions will be able to integrate into global trade and even move up 
the value -chain. We are also concerned with support provided to the agriculture sector which 
continues to distort trade. South Africa 's current exports in agriculture a re concentrated on a few 
products such as citrus fruit, canned fruit, fruit juice and wine. We have a keen interest to grow our 
agriculture exports to Japan which currently stand at only 3.1% of our total exports. We also note 
that 7.1% of Japan's tariff l ines are non -ad valorem, and all the highest tariffs have non -ad valorem 
rates.  
4.457.   We remain concerned with the impact of voluntary agriculture and industrial standards which 
are at times higher than the international standard and have a negative impact on t rade. We 
recognize that Members have the right to determine the appropriate level of sanitary or 
phytosanitary protection necessary to protect human, animal and plant life and health, and to 
establish measures to that end. To many least developed countries  (LDC) and developing countries, 
technical barriers to trade, especially sanitary and phytosanitary standard requirements (SPS) are 
trade restrictive because they add to the series of costs faced by their exporters. This has 
implications for developing cou ntries’ export earnings and incomes. In turn, it affects their quest for 
sustainable development through reducing poverty and unemployment. We urge Japan to consider 
the implications of these measures to developing countries.  
4.458.   In view of the fisheries negot iations, we note the level of support provided by Japan to the 
fisheries sector and the importance of the fisheries sector to many developing countries. We hope 
to work constructively with Japan as we aim to deliver on all elements of SDG 14.6, with S&D an  
integral part.  
4.459.   We also note the amendments to the anti -dumping legislative framework and welcome the 
removal of anti -dumping duties on electrolytic manganese dioxide from South Africa and Spain.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  4.460.   In relation to investment reforms, it is noteworthy that pri or notification and approval 
requirements are in place for investments where there could be significant adverse effects on the 
smooth management of the national economy or on the grounds of public order, public safety or 
national security.  
4.461.   Furthermore, wh ile recognizing the right of each Member to conclude FTAs, we hope that the 
FTAs that are recently concluded meet the WTO requirements of covering substantially all trade.  
4.462.   Finally, we wish Japan a successful trade policy review and welcome Japan 's commitme nt 
and contribution to a rules -based MTS and to Africa 's development through TICAD. We also thank 
the Secretariat for its report.  
KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.463.   Since the beginning of its membership to WTO, Japan has demonstrated highest of 
dedications to WTO rules and a s it has been said at the last TPR of 2017 has convincingly shown its 
commitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO 
continuously.  
4.464.   Among many other successful steps on the WTO platform are Acceptance of Trade Facilitation 
Agreement and Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.465.   Diplomatic relations between Kyrgyzstan and Japan were established in January 1992. In 
2003-2004, the mutual establishment of embassies took place. Four years ago, the Japanese Prime 
Ministe r paid an official visit to Kyrgyzstan. The visit laid a solid Foundation for bringing bilateral 
relations to a new level of partnership.  
4.466.   Regular official visits of high delegations of both countries on a mutual basis have created 
favorable conditions for discussions of trade and investment between two countries. Among the last 
steps is visit of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic , Mr. Sooronbay Zheenbekov . to Japan in 
October  2019. Within this visit prospects for investment cooperation and measures to expand 
contacts between the business circles of the two countries between our states were discussed.  
4.467.   Meanwhile, today we recognize that the level of trade and economic relations does not 
correspond to the existing potential. Kyrgyzstan is inter ested in filling this gap. The Kyrgyz Republic 
and Japan have a number of business events, which lay forward the progress in economic relations.  
4.468.   Our countries have established beneficial mutual trade. The dynamics of trade from 2016 to 
2019 demonstrates po sitive trend.  
4.469.   Kyrgyzstan's exports to Japan increased by 30% for the period 2016 to 2019.  
4.470.   Kyrgyzstan’s export for abovementioned period to Japan mainly comprised honey, oilseeds, 
parts and accessories for appliances and machines, finished textiles and jet  fuel. 
4.471.   Imports for this period 2016 -2019 increased for 35%.  
4.472.   The goods of imports from Japan consisted of machinery, equipment for industry, gears and 
engines, rubber products (tires), products made of ferrous metals, spare part for vehicles, 
electronical m achines and apparatus, medicines etc.  
4.473.   In terms of services, it is worth to note that tourism seems very attractive to strengthen the 
potential of trade relations in services sector.  
4.474.   Taking this opportunity, the Kyrgyz Republic wishes a very successful four teenth Trade Policy 
Review to the delegation of Japan.  
  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  I would like to thank all the Members for their participation in Japan's TPR on Monday as well 
as today.   
5.2.  I highly appreciate your able management of the meeting, Mr. Chair, as well as valuable inputs 
by the Secretariat and the insightful presentation mad e by the discussant, H.E. Ambassador 
Dagfinn  Sørli, on Monday. Each Member’s intervention would help us to evaluate our own policies 
from various angles so that Japan can achieve greater transparency. As one of the original advocates 
of the TPRM during the  Uruguay Round negotiation, I would like to reiterate Japan’s commitment to 
the peer review mechanism of the WTO.  
5.3.  We also express our gratitude for comments from a number of Members on the openness and 
predictability of the Japanese economy  and trade polic ies, including Japan’s commitment to free 
trade and the multilateral trading system embodied in the WTO.  
5.4.  There were also concerns raised by Members over Japan’s policies, asking for further 
improvement. I would also like to appreciate those interventions.  
5.5.  Since a variety of points of interests were raised, I may need to focus on issues which 
particularly attracted the attention of Members, structured by main themes for this review.  
5.6.  Having said that, Japan will respond, in writing, to all the remaining writ ten questions which 
have been or will be submitted before the deadline.  
Economic Environment  
Public Debt  
5.7.  Some Members referred to Japan’s public debt. While Japan’s fiscal situation is extremely 
severe as its public debt has cumulatively increased, Japan a ims to achieve both economic 
revitalization and fiscal consolidation in order to secure trust of the markets and the international 
community.  
5.8.  Japan formulated “the New Plan to Advance Economic and Fiscal Revitalization in 2018”, which 
aims to achieve a pri mary surplus of the central and local governments by FY2025 while steadily 
reducing the public -debt-to-GDP ratio.  
Labor Market: empowerment of women  
5.9.  I appreciate that many Members mentioned Japan’s efforts in the area of labor market policy. 
Amongst them,  in particular, Japan has been actively promoting women’s greater economic 
participation in order to resolve unprecedented challenge of declining birthrate and aging population. 
In this context, the facilitation of women’s active role has been placed as an  important element of 
the “third arrow” of Abenomics in Japan’s Revitalization Strategy. To point out a few notable 
achievements, the number of women in the workforce increased by about 2.9 million from 2012 to 
2018, and the percentage of female managers i n the private sector is approaching 10%. Japan 
continues to reduce the burden of working parents and accelerate women’s promotion.  
Regional Trade Agreement Policy  
5.10.   I am pleased that many Members referred to their bilateral and regional trade agreements 
with Japan as the basis of their economic ties with Japan. With respect to the question on how 
Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) contribute to the multilateral trading system, Japan considers 
that RTAs promote free, fair and rule -based trading system, and that they complement the 
multilateral trading system.  
5.11.   Japan considers that this understanding has been widely shared among the WTO Members, 
and aims to continue to tak e the lead in establishing comprehensive and balanced global rules 
through the conclusion and expansion of high -standard RTAs. I would also like to reiterate that Japan 
will stay committed to ensuring that Japan’s RTAs are WTO -consistent.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  Trade Policies  
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures  
5.12.   I would like to respond to the comments made by Members on Japan’s Sanitary and 
Phytosanitary measures. Japan establishes food safety standards on the basis of sound scientific 
evidence, and is making every effort to harmonize them with relevant international standards. For 
example, Japan takes into account the Codex standards whenever reviewing Maximum Residue 
Limits (MRLs) for agricultural chemicals and food additive standards, in accordance with Article 3.1 
of the W TO SPS Agreement.  
5.13.   Japan, when necessary, sets food safety standards which are different from the relevant 
international standards. However, these measures are based on scientific evidence and consistent 
with Article 3.3 of the SPS Agreement.  
Animal and Pla nt Health  
5.14.   Regarding the lifting a ban and application of regionalization, upon request by a Member, we 
conduct a risk assessment using sufficient information provided from the requesting Member and 
examine the request based on the result of the risk assess ment, while closely consulting with the 
Member. The mentioned procedure is consistent with the SPS Agreement and relevant international 
standards. The procedure is publicly available and is ensured to be operated with transparency.  
Technical Barriers to Tr ade 
5.15.   Comments were made regarding Japan’s measures on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and 
compliance with international standards. The measures of Japan are, in general, based on relevant 
international standards, to the maximum extent possible, in accorda nce with the WTO TBT 
Agreement. Those measures are under a constant review with a view to harmonizing them with 
relevant international standards.  
Import of Industrial Products  
5.16.   Some Member mentioned the difficulties in exporting industrial products such as automobiles 
to Japan. Since Japan neither imposes tariffs on imported automobiles nor takes any discriminatory 
measures including non -tariff barriers, it is our recognition that Japan's automobile market is 
sufficiently open and fair.  In fact, the sales of  some foreign automakers in Japan is steadily 
increasing. We expect the foreign automakers which have an interest in Japanese market will follow 
the practices of those successful automakers through further sales efforts.  
Generalized System of Preferences  
5.17.   In order to improve market access for developing countries, Japan introduced preferential 
tariff treatment under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) regime on 1 August 1971, and 
has re -examined it several times since then. Furthermore, under the re gime, Japan has been 
granting special preferential treatment to LDCs since 1980. Currently, 128 developing countries and 
5 territories, including all LDCs, enjoy the benefits.  
5.18.   Japan has fully committed itself to provide duty -free and quota -free (DFQF) mar ket access 
for essentially all products originating from LDCs. As a result, the number of agricultural and fishery 
products originating from LDCs which receive DFQF preferential treatments is 1,810 and that of 
industrial products is 4,194. Consequently, tr eatment coverage for LDCs has reached approximately 
98% as defined at the tariff line level.  
5.19.   These preferential tariff treatments have contributed to improving market access for 
developing countries.  
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)  
5.20.   Regarding the co mments on the Gove rnment Procurement, Japan is a p arty to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) and is making various efforts to increase opportunities WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  for foreign suppliers to obtain access to the Japanese market. Japan has established, on a voluntar y 
basis, non -discriminatory, fair and transparent procedures that surpass the level of obligations 
stipulated in the GPA under the domestic laws and ordinances.  
5.21.   Japan is also making its efforts to improve transparency of the procurement process in order 
to be more user -friendly for domestic and foreign participants alike. For example, the central 
government announces the annual schedules of its procurement plan well in advance and holds 
seminars on Japan’s government procurement for foreign entities and dip lomatic corps stationed in 
Tokyo. In addition to above mentioned efforts, Japan has established a portal site of the Government 
Procurement at the JETRO’s website in English for foreign user’s convenience.  
5.22.   Some M embers raised their concerns on ICT procurem ents. I would like to emphasize that 
Japan does not exclude any specific companies from the government procurement and does not 
prohibit the Japanese companies from procuring products of any specific companies. Japan is 
promoting the expansion of membershi p of the GPA and we expect Members expressing their 
concerns on Japan’s procurement to become parties to the GPA by satisfying necessary requirements 
including ensuring level playing field.   
Export Control on Korea  
5.23.   With regard to export control on Korea, firstly, all WTO Members understand that, the WTO 
rules fully recognize their right to implement an export control system. In addition, under 
international export control regimes outside the WTO, it is fully recognized and respected that each 
participating  State has the right to decide for itself on actual and effective enforcement and 
implementation.  
5.24.   Following the established practices, Japan implements export license requirements solely with 
a view to enhancing appropriate export control for verifying whe ther dual -use goods and 
technologies exported or transferred from Japan pose a risk of being diverted to weapons or military 
use.  
5.25.   In particular, with respect to the three items at issue, as explained at various occasions, there 
were concerns such as the e xport control of individual exporters which tends to be managed in an 
inappropriate manner due to tight delivery schedules requested by users. There have also been 
underlying concerns including those related to vulnerabilities of the organization and opera tion of 
Korea’s export control system, which is still the case today.  
5.26.   Second, Japan stresses that our export license requirements do not constitute quantitative 
restriction, let alone export ban. In fact, Japan has already granted export licenses for all o f the 
three items, which were confirmed to be for civil use. As the Korean Government also stated at 
various occasions, no disruptions in the supply chains have been caused.  
5.27.   Third, regardless of what Korea asserts, Japan is convinced that the essential iss ue is whether 
the effectiveness of Korea’s export control system has actually improved. Solely for the purpose of 
responsibly implementing its export control, comprehensive assessment on such actual 
improvement is necessary to determine whether it is neces sary to make any further updates of 
Japan’s export control measures.  
5.28.   That is why Japan believes that enhancing mutual understandings of export control systems 
and building a relationship of trust between export control authorities is the best and only way to 
resolve this matter. Until Korea suddenly disrupted the Japan -Korea Export Control Policy Dialogue 
and other communications, both sides mutually enhanced understandings on export control systems 
each other. That is why Japan is disappointed by the Korea ’s decision.  
5.29.   Japan remains hopeful that Korea returns to the table of dialogue and enhances Japan -Korea 
mutual cooperation towards non -proliferation of weapons of mass destructions, instead of pursuing 
the WTO dispute settlement process.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  WTO Reform (rule -making)  
5.30.   We ap preciate the comments from many Members on Japan’s commitment to the multilateral 
trading system and the WTO at its core, and our active engagement in multilateral and plurilateral 
negotiations at the WTO. Even at such a challenging time as today, maintain ing and strengthening 
the multilateral trading system is our foremost priority. Given the vulnerability and limitations of the 
existing free trading system, revitalization of the negotiation function of our Organization is essential.  
5.31.   On the Joint Statement  Initiative on electronic commerce, Japan has been taking a leading 
role in the negotiations as a co -convener with Australia and Singapore. With the advent of the 
COVID -19 crisis, the importance of the digitalization of the economy has been widely recogniz ed and 
the pace of digitalization has been even more accelerated. Against this background, Japan will 
continue to lead the negotiations to achieve substantial progress by the Twelfth Ministerial 
Conference (MC12), including through the development of a con solidated negotiating text, possibly 
by the end of this year.  
5.32.   As many Members mentioned, Japan is an active participant in other areas of the JSIs such 
as those on investment facilitation and Micro, Small and Medium enterprises. With regard to the JSI 
on services domestic regulation, Japan welcomes active discussions on rule -making in this area, and 
expects further constructive discussions to achieve concrete outcomes by the MC12 at the latest. It 
is essential to ensure a level playing field during and afte r the process of economic recovery from 
the COVID -19 crisis. Japan will continue to work closely with other Members on this issue, especially 
on strengthening international rules on industrial subsidies.  
Dispute Settlement Reform  
5.33.   We all recognize the urgen t need for the reform of the WTO dispute settlement system so that 
it functions properly in serving the ultimate goal of securing a positive solution to a dispute. Our 
priority has always been and continues to find a long -lasting solution towards this end.  
5.34.   We also recognize the need for a stop -gap measure to secure a positive and prompt solution 
to pending disputes. Our own painful experience in recent dispute cases made us acutely aware of 
the need to address underlying issues of the WTO dispute settlement  system. Therefore, Japan 
strongly believes that any attempts to adopt measures of provisional nature must serve the ultimate 
purpose of achieving a long -lasting reform of the WTO dispute settlement system. I also would like 
to stress whatever a long -lasting reform we will achieve, we must remember a fundamental principle 
underlying the WTO or the GATT dispute settlement system is to resolve disputes through bilateral 
consultations.  
Sectoral Policies  
Agriculture  
Agricultural Measures  
5.35.   A number of Members referred to agricultural support in Japan. Japan’s measures on 
agricultural products are consistent with the WTO Agreements, including domestic support, tariffs 
system, Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) administration, and state trading. Regarding domestic s upport, 
Japan has reviewed its market price support policies and direct payments, as appropriate. 
TRQ administration is arranged based on the characteristics of each product, in which Japan is 
making utmost efforts to make the quota allocation and its admi nistration fair and transparent, 
including making these operations publicly available through WTO notifications and on the official 
websites of the relevant Ministries.  
Agricultural Reform  
5.36.   Japan also noted comments on the agricultural reform from a number  of Members, and would 
like to emphasize that robust agricultural reform is under way. For example, Japan revised “the Basic 
Plan for Food, Agriculture and Rural Areas” in March 2020, in which the general direction is described 
to formulate policies on foo d, agriculture and rural areas with a vision for the next 10 years.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  5.37.   In response to the aging and declining population in rural areas, as well as changes in domestic 
and global markets, the planned measures aim, for example, at:  
• improving the productivity  by consolidating farmlands, promoting “smart agriculture” and 
utilizat ion of digital technology, and  
• generating income and employment opportunities utilizing regionally available resources such 
as biomass and local specialties.  
Fishery Subsidies  
5.38.   Some Memb ers referred to fisheries subsidies.  
5.39.   In light of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Ministerial declarations and 
decisions, Japan continues to participate in text -based discussions in an active and constructive 
manner.  
5.40.   While Japan will expres s its views on individual points at coming negotiations, it should be 
emphasized that the disciplines of fisheries subsidies should be targeted to the environmentally 
harmful subsidies as mandated by the SDGs, and that the role of appropriate fisheries man agement 
in ensuring the sustainability of fisheries resources should be duly recognized in the disciplines.   
Conclusion  
5.41.   As I mentioned on the first day, we feel much honored to become the first Member to be 
reviewed after the suspension of the TPR process  due to the COVID -19 since this March. The TPRM 
is more important than ever, with all the uncertainties and anxieties caused by the COVID -19 crisis. 
I hope that Japan’s robust and unwavering commitment to this mechanism is loud and clear to 
everyone, given  the intensive work my team has cooperated with you all for such an aggressive 
timeline of preparation. I wish to conclude my remarks by express ing my sincere gratitude to 
Mr. Chair, Ambassador Dagfinn Sørli, the Secretariat and all the Members for your in valuable 
contribution and support to make this 14th Trade Policy Review of Japan a productive and a successful 
one. Thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.42.   First of all, I would like to thank Deputy Director General Sone, Ambassador Yamazaki and 
their team for their hard work in replying to the Members’ questions. It is an honour to contribute 
to the conclusion of this Trade Policy Review by highlighting some of the main issues discussed.  
5.43.   Several Members commented on the growth oriented macroeconomic policies of Japan , 
commonly known as "Abenomics". Japan was commended for its efforts to increase the participation 
of women in the labour market, and Members encouraged Japan to strengthen the focus on 
structural reforms.  
5.44.   Members appreciated the strong commitment of Japa n to the rules -based multilateral trading 
system embodied in the WTO. Members applauded the active engagement of Japan in the WTO, 
including the active participation in various Joint Statement Initiatives, and , in particular , Japans 
leadership in the Joint Initiative on electronic commerce.  
5.45.   Members pointed to Japans active pursuit of preferential trade agreements as a complement 
to the multilateral trading system in promoting free trade. I noted that some Members found reason  
to recall that such agreements should cover "substantially all trade".  
5.46.   Japan ’s position as one of the world’s largest economies, an important trading nation and 
source of foreign direct investments, was reflected in the Members' statements, highlighting t he 
importance of bilateral ties with Japan, both in trade and investments. Members interest in 
developing their economic ties with Japan was also reflected in the high number of questions, 
including requests for clarification of policies and regulations.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  5.47.   Many M embers pointed to challenges related to exports to the Japanese market. Members 
with export interests in the agriculture sector in particular, commented on Japan ’s complex tariffs 
and relatively high level of tariffs, as well as the relatively high le vel of support for Japan ’s 
agriculture. Several Members encouraged Japan to continue on the path of reform in the agricultural 
sector.  
5.48.   Challenges related to the regulatory framework, specifically in the area of sanitary and 
phytosanitary measures, but als o more general ly in relation to standards and technical regulations, 
were highlighted by a number of delegations. Various challenges related to the business environment 
were also identified.  
5.49.   In my view, the review was carried out in a constructive spirit a nd positive atmosphere. 
Members engaged actively with pointed questions and relevant comments, and the delegation of 
Japan has responded with the same engagement and respect. Japan has responded comprehensively 
to key issues raised by Members, and , in gene ral, provided substantial answers to the many 
questions raised by Members. Given Japan ’s key position and role in the world economy, it should 
be expected that Japan ’s policies and practices related to trade and investments will continue to be 
of great int erest to other Members.  
5.50.   I would like to thank the delegation of Japan for their open and constructive attitude towards 
this exercise. I trust that the Government of Japan will make use of this review as an encouragement 
and inspiration to continue its stab le path, where an open and predictable trade policy anchored in 
the rules -based international trading system is an indispensable element.  
5.51.   Let me conclude by congratulating the delegation of Japan with a successful Trade Policy 
Review. Thank you.  
JAMAICA  
5.52.   Throughout the years, Jamaica and Japan have shared a strong and vibrant partnership at 
the bilateral, regional, and international levels. This has been underpinned by mutually beneficial 
tourism and cultural exchanges between both countries, as well as incr easing trade and investment 
flows. To date, Japan is one of Jamaica’s leading import markets in Asia with motor vehicles and 
parts, as well as machinery and equipment comprising the country’s main purchases from Japan. 
Jamaica has generally maintained a su bstantial trade deficit with Japan with total imports from Japan 
valued at US D 298.5 million in 2019. Jamaica’s main exports to Japan include coffee, pimento, 
pepper sauce, rum, beer, and wine, among other products.  
5.53.   In recent years, the two countries have  been focused on strengthening collaboration on issues 
such as geographical indications and double taxation.  Jamaica has also benefited from a 
longstanding foreign direct investment relationship with Japan, including in its energy, agricultural 
and food se rvices sectors.  
5.54.   We commend Japan for the progress made since its last review in 2017. The reports highlight 
the country’s positive macro -economic performance and outlook. The economy recorded moderate 
growth at an average of 1.1 % per annum over the reporti ng period and that this figure is expected 
to improve. We note further the strong fiscal and other measures implemented by the Government 
which have not only resulted in further reducing the fiscal deficit, lowering inflation, poverty, and 
unemployment but  are also intended to stimulate higher levels of economic growth.  
5.55.   The services sector is paramount for Japan, contributing to 69.5% of the country’s Gross 
Domestic Product (GDP) and 72.7% of total employment. The manufacturing sector also plays an 
importan t role and accounts for approximately 20.8 % of GDP.  
5.56.   As the world's third largest and fifth most competitive economy, Japan’s trade performance 
should also be commended. Trade remains a priority for Japan and the country has pursued 
strengthening relations with key regional and bilateral partners in keeping with its strategic interests. 
Positively also is the fact that the Japanese economy is characterized  by a high degree of openness 
as well as integration into the world economy and global value chains. Thi s is further supported by 
a range of policy measures which, inter alia, are aimed at facilitating trade and investment. WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  These  include: the Abenomics programme , the 2016 Japan Revitalization Strategy , the Future 
Investment Strategy , the New Economic Policy Package, and the 2019 National Growth Strategy.  
5.57.   Jamaica values the commitment demonstrated by Japan towards the strengthening and 
preservation of the rules -based multilateral system which is a vital  conduit for achieving the growth 
and development objectives of all Members. We further commend Japan for its continued active 
engagement in the work of the WTO and its various Councils and take note of its contributions to 
various Joint Statement Initiati ves, including on Electronic Commerce.  
5.58.   In conclusion, Jamaica once again congratulates Japan and extends best wishes for a 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
5.59.   This year, the Dominican Republic and Japan are commemorating 86 years of diplomat ic 
relations, preceded by long standing trade relations. It is worth noting that in 2019, the 
Dominican  Republic's imports from Japan accounted for more than USD 388 million, according to 
data from our country's Directorate General of Customs. The main imp orts include frozen and canned 
fish products, edible oils, motor vehicles, general spare parts for vehicles, oils and lubricants for 
motor vehicles, musical instruments and medical measuring equipment.  
5.60.   Exports from the Dominican Republic to Japan in 2019 r eached more than USD 20,010,000, 
combining domestic exports and our special economic zones. The main exports included tobacco, 
avocados, pharmaceutical articles, footwear, oral hygiene products and textiles.  
5.61.   Both countries are signatories to the WTO's Info rmation Technology Agreement (ITA) and are 
involved in the negotiations on its expansion. On 31 August 2007, Japan accepted the 2005 Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement and has also accepted the 2014 Protocol on the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement.  
5.62.   At the W TO's 2017 Ministerial Conference, Japan also endorsed the joint Ministerial 
Statements on investment facilitation for development, the establishment of a WTO informal work 
programme for MSMEs and domestic regulation in services.  
5.63.   We applaud Japan for having maintained its position as the world's third largest and fifth most 
competitive economy, according to the Secretariat's report. Japan continues to be the world's most 
diverse economy, through its exports of high-tech products an d its service sector.  
5.64.   A loose monetary policy has continued to provide a monetary stimulus to growth and helped 
to build a stable financial environment.  
5.65.   Our country also appreciates Japan's flexibility in permitting authorized economic operators 
to submit their import and export declarations to any customs office, not only to the one at which 
their goods are being stored.  
5.66.   We welcome the progress made in the realization of Society 5.0 and the efforts to further 
boost the labour supply, particularly with wome n, older workers and foreign workers, to compensate 
for adverse demographic trends.  
5.67.   We note, however, that support for agricultural producers remains high. Farmers that increase 
farm size continue to be eligible to receive payments for each additional hect are and payments of 
up to JPY 700,000 per household are available for the purpose of leasing land to farmers. We also 
note that Japan's most recent notification to the Committee on Agriculture with respect to domestic 
support dates back to the 2016 financi al period.  
5.68.   To conclude, we welcome Japan's timely replies, which are being examined in our capital, to 
the Dominican Republic's questions regarding various points in the report. We appreciate the 
Japanese authorities' trade facilitation efforts and would u rge them to continue making their valuable 
contribution to the global value chain and multilateral trading system. We wish Japan every success 
in this process.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  UNITED  STATES  
5.69.   We sincerely thank Head of Delegation, Deputy Director General Kenko Sone for his thoughtful 
remarks, and Ambassador Sørli for his insightful observations as discussant this morning. We also 
extend our gratitude to both Japan and the Secretariat for their efforts to overcome the challenges 
in holding the Trade Policy Review during an ongoing pandemic using a creative hybrid approach.  
5.70.   During day 1 remarks, the United States, along with several another Members, voiced concern 
regarding non -tariff barriers and  market access barriers to trade in the industrial and agricultural 
sectors. Notwithstanding these raised concerns, the United States recognizes and encourages efforts 
and concrete measures by Japan to further facilitate market opening through domestic ref orms and 
through further bilateral negotiations.  
5.71.   We greatly appreciate Japan’s informative responses to our advance written questions. We 
have studied them carefully and have several follow -up questions which we submitted to the 
TPR Division earlier this m orning. Our follow -up questions focus primarily on matters related to tax 
reform, ongoing trade negotiations, export support, standards and labelling requirements, 
SPS measures, IPR, forestry trade policies, international agreements, and e -commerce.  
5.72.   We tha nk Japan for their continued engagement , and we intend to review the responses to 
these questions closely.  
5.73.   In closing, the United States looks forward to continuing our close partnership with Japan on 
areas of mutual concern. Congratulations on completing the first hybrid TPR.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.74.   I would first like to thank Japan for the comprehensive overview presented on Monday of the 
main developments occurred in its trade and economic policy during the review period, as well as 
for the presentation this morn ing.  
5.75.   The discussion on the first day of the review has shown that many Members share the EU’s 
positive views about the constructive role Japan plays within the WTO and in international trade and 
the continued commitment Japan shows to the multilateral tra ding system.  
5.76.   The EU also shares the views of many Members about the effective management of the 
COVID -19 crisis by Japan and its good cooperation with other countries.  
5.77.   While we maintain an enhanced bilateral discussion, close coordination and exchange of  
information through our Strategic Partnership Agreement and the Economic Partnership Agreement, 
this review has been very useful for furthe r understanding the trade policies  of Japan.   
5.78.   The EU hopes that Japan will duly take into account some of the chall enges and concerns 
highlighted by us and other Members.  
5.79.   We would like to thank Japan for having provided timely replies to the questions raised by the 
EU. The answers gave useful clarifications on the issues we had raised.  
5.80.   However, the replies also demon strate that further clarification and information is needed on 
some occasions. Therefore, the EU has submitted follow -up questions on a limited number of issues, 
notably on SPS measures and government procurement issues. We have submitted these follow -up 
questions to Japan via the Secretariat and will look forward to the replies in due time.  
5.81.   For the EU, Japan is a strategic partner with shared interests and commitment to the 
multilateral, rule -based trading system. We are looking forward to our continued c o-operation in all 
the relevant multilateral , plurilateral , and bilateral  fora. 
5.82.   We also thank Japan for holding the suspended TPR in this hybrid format that proved to be a 
successful exercise and hopefully will also serve as an inspiration for the other re sumed TPR 
meetings in the future.  WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  CHINA  
5.83.   Let me start by thanking the delegation of Japan, both those present here and many 
colleagues in Tokyo, for their efforts in this exceptional Trade Policy Review during the pandemic. 
My appreciation also goes to H.E. Kenko Sone for his comprehensive response to Members’ 
interventions.  
5.84.   China values Japan as its important trading partner and top investor. We welcome Japan’s 
commitment to the multilateral trading system. We hope Japan will intensify its efforts to en sure its 
trade and investment regime transparent, fair, and non -discriminate by taking due consideration of 
Members’ concerns expressed in this TPR.  
5.85.   We look forward to continued collaboration and cooperation with Japan, both in the global 
supply chain and here at the WTO. We thank Japan for providing answers to our advance questions 
which will be studied further in our capital.  
5.86.   China also submitted some follow -up questions with regard to IP protection, agriculture export 
promotion, and TRQ administratio ns sector. We hope replies will be given in due course.  
5.87.   In conclusion, let me congratulate Japan on a successful Trade Policy Review. I sincerely wish 
the delegates, both here and in Japan, good health and safe.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
5.88.   We will convey the respons e provided by Japan to capital and hope that concerns expressed 
by Members including Korea in this review will be seriously considered and be addressed by Japan.  
5.89.   I would like to raise an important house -keeping issue concerning the confidentiality of the 
TPR process. Prior to the first session of the TPR meeting, Korea had provided a copy of our draft 
statement to the Secretariat according to the request for its internal use only, which we understood 
was for interpreters. However, the draft statement has be en leaked to the press and some parts of 
the draft statement have been misquoted, which we have modified in our actual delivery.  
5.90.   This leak could mislead the public about Korea’s statement, and also undermine the credibility 
of the Secretariat in its manag ement of the TPR process.  
5.91.   Korea expresses strong regret over this leak and requests the Secretariat to examine how the 
draft statement has been leaked to the press and to remedy the incorrect news reports as soon as 
possible. In addition, for the sake of all Members, we firmly request that the Secretariat would 
prevent any recurrence of such press leak.   WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  Despite the COVID -19-related meeting constraints, the fourteenth Trade Policy Review of Japan 
has offered us a good opportunity to deepen our understanding of recent developments in, and 
challenges to, its trade, economic, and investment policies. Since its last TPR in 2017, Japan's 
initiatives to maintain its position in the Multilateral Trading System and take advanta ge of the 
opportunities it offers have been greatly appreciated. Indeed, the about 753 advance written 
questions submitted by 32 Members and the 50 delegations that took the floor during the first and 
second day underline the importance attached by Members  to Japan's trade and investment policies 
and practices.  
6.2.  I would like to thank Japan's delegation, led by the Director -General of the Economic Affairs 
Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kenko Sone, for its active participation in this exercise  
speaking from Tokyo. Also, I would like to thank H.E. Ambassador Yamazaki, Permanent 
Representative of Japan to the WTO, our discussant H.E. Ambassador Dagfinn Sørli, Permanent 
Representative of Norway to the WTO, for his insightful remarks, and all the d elegations that took 
the floor for their valuable contributions to this Review.  
6.3.  Members commended Japan's key role in the global trading system, its integration in the world 
economy and global value chains, the results of its macroeconomic policy (Abenomi cs), its policies 
to promote women’s economic empowerment and its response to the COVID -19 pandemic. Japan 
remains a key investment and trade partner for many Members. Concern was expressed about  
recent measures to increase the scrutiny of foreign direct investment and to incentivize firms to 
re-shore production. Members welcomed trade -related structural reform focused on increasing 
economic resilience and productivity. Members felt that reforms r elating to digital privacy and 
medical care should not unduly disadvantage foreign firms.  It was noted that economic support could 
be costly as Japan was still to address fiscal consolidation  and high public debt . 
6.4.  Members praised Japan for its initiatives,  longstanding support and active participation in the 
Multilateral Trading System. They , inter alia , referred to the Joint Statement Initiatives on 
e-Commerce and on Investment Facilitation for Development, the Joint Declaration on Women and 
Economic Empow erment, and the Statement on MSMEs, as well as its contribution to advance WTO 
reform and engagement in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies and services domestic regulation. 
They also highlighted Japan ’s strong track record with WTO notification obliga tions in almost all 
areas.  Some Members invited Japan to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement. 
Members also referred to Japan's increased focus on RTA initiatives, including its leadership on the 
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreeme nt for Trans -Pacific Partnership, and their trade coverage. 
Several developing and least -developed Members expressed appreciation for Japan's aid for 
trade -related assistance, One Village One Product programme, and tariff preferences whose 
deepening was en couraged. Japan was praised for notifying its preferential rules of origin in favour 
of LDCs, as part of the Nairobi Decision.  
6.5.  While commending the high degree of predictability in Japan's tariff regime, Members 
encouraged a reduction of the complexity and  peaks of its customs tariff. While Japan was 
commended for its trade facilitation efforts, it was encouraged to improve efficiency in the handling 
of goods at the border and ensure that technical regulations do not impede trade. Japan was urged 
to remove certain export restrictions. Foreign participation in government procurement remained 
low and Japan was encouraged to revise its procedures and practices in this area.  
6.6.  Some other issues were also raised by certain Members. Agriculture remained highly prot ected 
by tariff and non -tariff (e.g.  SPS) measures, and supported by subsidies. Tariff Rate Quota fill rates 
for certain products were low, some products faced market access barriers and concern was 
expressed about the role of state trading in the sector. Many Members urged Japan to pursue a 
market -oriented reform, reduce subsidization and submit outstanding WTO notifications on domestic 
support on agriculture. Some Members encouraged alignment of domestic standards with 
international standards (e.g., Codex  Alimentarius) in the agri -food sector. Japan was urged to reduce 
its fisheries subsidies and improve their transparency so as to ensure that they do not contribute to 
illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing or overfishing and overcapacity. Japan was e ncouraged 
to rationalize its fossil fuel subsidies regime. Whereas industrial tariffs were generally low, non -tariff 
barriers affected market access of certain goods (e.g., automotive, electrical appliances and 
pharmaceuticals). On services, some Members i nquired about the prospects for more foreign 
participation in certain activities; they also noted market access difficulties in notably on Information WT/TPR/M/39 7 • Japan  
 
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  Technology services, insurance, and telecommunications (5G spectrum allocation). Japan was 
praised for it s WTO commitments in maritime transport.  
6.7.  The above are some of the key issues that had emerged in our discussion. I hope that the 
Japanese delegation will take into account and further reflect on these issues and on the many 
constructive comments, both br oad and detailed, that it has received during this Review. Members 
look forward to receiving the answers from Japan to any outstanding questions within one month, 
at which point the Review will be successfully concluded.  
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